Pinecrest Gardens will close early February 14.Garden Hours: 9 AM to 4 PM
Published on October 29, 2024
Visitors to Pinecrest Gardens can’t help noticing the abundant ferns growing in the Lower Gardens, especially in the Cypress Slough area and the Tropical Hardwood Hammock. The moisture, humidity, and protection from strong sunlight and wind is ideal for these environmentally sensitive plants. Approximately 10 species of native ferns can be seen, commonly growing in small cracks and pockets in undisturbed limestone, the prominent geological feature that makes Pinecrest Gardens so special. Most were growing on-site before the Gardens were created. These native fern communities are often found on the walls of solution holes and near freshwater springs, features of South Florida’s coastal landscape that have been nearly eliminated in urban areas. Consequently, many of our native ferns are currently classified locally or state-wide as threatened, endangered, or in some instances, extinct. Sea level rise and other environmental changes further threaten the existing populations, but healthy examples have been conserved and protected at Pinecrest Gardens. The Gardens also carefully cultivates several other tropical fern species. Notable ones include Leather Fern, the largest U.S. fern, and Mules Foot Fern, a giant Australian fern species. Imposing examples of just how big Leather Fern can grow are to be seen at the edge of the parking lot in the Mangrove Forest area. A large Mules Foot Fern can be found next to the Waterfall Pond across from the Slough. Although most ferns are not considered weedy, some ornamental species can escape from horticulture and become invasive. One example are various forms and hybrids of Boston Fern, which have colonized many parks and natural areas in the county, yet are commonly sold in local garden centers and nurseries. These plants are no longer cultivated in the Gardens, and if found, the horticultural team removes them.