Definition

Noun: - A species of fern native to western North America, characterized by its stiff, leathery, ovate fronds that are deeply divided (parted) to the central midrib.

Usage

This term is used specifically in botanical contexts to identify and describe this particular species of fern. - The coastal forest floor was dotted with Polypodium scouleri. - A key identifying feature of Polypodium scouleri is its leathery leaf texture.

Advanced Usage

• The scientific name is typically written in italics, with the genus () capitalized and the specific epithet () in lowercase.
• It may be referred to by its common name, "leathery polypody" or "Scouler's polypody."

Variants and Related Words

• leathery polypody (n): A common name for this fern, referring to its stiff, leather-like leaves.
• Scouler's polypody (n): Another common name, honoring the naturalist John Scouler.
• Polypodium (n): The genus to which this fern belongs, encompassing many other polypody fern species.

Synonyms

• leathery polypody
• Scouler's polypody

Different Meanings

This term has only one meaning: it refers exclusively to this specific botanical species. It is not used in idiomatic or figurative language.

Noun

1. stiff leathery-leaved fern of western North America having ovate fronds parted to the midrib