marsh fern

American  

noun

1. a fern, Thelypteris palustris, having pinnatifid fronds and growing in wet places.

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marsh fern British  

noun

1. a fern of marshy woodlands, Thelypteris palustris, having pale green pinnate leaves and an underground rootstock

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Etymology

Origin of marsh fern

First recorded in 1855–60

Example Sentences

Thin, green marsh fern circled lakes alongside moonwort, rattlesnake fern and horsetail.

From New York Times • Oct. 21, 2016

While the marsh fern loves moisture and shade it is sometimes found in dry, open fields.

From The Fern Lover's Companion A Guide for the Northeastern States and Canada by Tilton, George Henry

The fronds of the marsh fern are apt to be sterile in deep shade.

From The Fern Lover's Companion A Guide for the Northeastern States and Canada by Tilton, George Henry

Resembles the marsh fern, of which it was once thought to be a variety.

From The Fern Lover's Companion A Guide for the Northeastern States and Canada by Tilton, George Henry

On account of its close resemblance to the marsh fern, Clute would call it "The lance-leaved Marsh Fern," instead of the irrelevant name of Massachusetts Fern.

From The Fern Lover's Companion A Guide for the Northeastern States and Canada by Tilton, George Henry