Eravikulam National Park features a Fernarium.

The Fernarium in Munnar is a collection of ferns and the first of its kind.
There are currently 52 varieties of ferns in the collection, and the plan is to eventually have all 104 varieties found in the park.
The initiative aims to raise awareness among visitors about the park’s biodiversity.

Ferns are fascinating plants that have been around for millions of years, and they can be found in many different environments all over the world. These ancient plants are beloved for their unique appearance and their ability to thrive in a variety of conditions. In this article, we will explore what ferns are, their characteristics, and why they are such a valuable addition to any garden or home.

What are Ferns?

Ferns are a type of vascular plant that reproduces via spores. They have roots, stems, and leaves, but unlike most other plants, they do not produce flowers or seeds. Instead, ferns have specialized structures on the underside of their leaves called sori, which contain the spores that will eventually grow into new ferns. Ferns belong to the class Polypodiopsida, which contains over 10,000 species of ferns.

Characteristics of Ferns

Ferns are known for their distinctive leaves, which are called fronds. These fronds can vary greatly in size and shape, depending on the species of fern. Some ferns have fronds that are only a few centimeters long, while others have fronds that can grow up to 30 feet in length. Fern fronds are typically divided into smaller leaflets, which give them a delicate, lacy appearance.

Ferns are also characterized by their ability to thrive in a variety of environments. Some ferns grow in wet, swampy areas, while others prefer dry, rocky soil. Ferns can grow in full sun or partial shade, and some species are even able to grow indoors. Additionally, ferns are often used to help control erosion and to add visual interest to gardens, parks, and other natural areas.

Why are Ferns Valuable?

Ferns are an important part of many ecosystems. They provide habitat and food for a wide variety of animals, including insects, birds, and small mammals. Additionally, ferns can help to improve soil health and prevent erosion. Ferns are also valued for their aesthetic appeal. Their delicate fronds and unique shapes make them a popular addition to gardens, both indoors and outdoors.

In addition to their aesthetic and ecological value, ferns also have some practical uses. For example, certain species of ferns have been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, headaches, and joint pain. Some species of ferns have also been used to create natural dyes, which can be used to color fabrics and other materials.

Ferns are fascinating plants that have been around for millions of years. Their unique appearance, ability to thrive in a variety of conditions, and ecological and practical value make them a valuable addition to any garden or home. Whether you are looking to add some visual interest to your indoor space or control erosion in your outdoor space, ferns are a versatile and beautiful option.

About Eravikulam National Park

Location	Perched 7000 ft. above sea level, the Park was a former hunting preserve of British planters
Designation	Declared a Sanctuary in 1975, and a National Park in 1978
Significance	Protects the highly endangered mountain goat, Nilgiri Tahr, and is the land of the Neelakurinji flower that blooms once in twelve years
Extent	Covers an area of 97 sq. km of rolling grasslands and high-level sholas
Climate	Receives heavy showers during the southwest (June/July) and retreating (October/November) Monsoons; one of the wettest areas in the world
Topography	Undulating terrain with grass, hillocks, and sholas; the highest peak south of the Himalayas, the Anamudi, is located here
Vegetation	Majorly covered with rolling grasslands, with several patches of shola forests; important flora includes Actinodaphne bouillon, Microtropis ram flora, Strobilanthus Kunthianus (Neela Kurinji), etc.
Wildlife Population	29 species of mammals, including the endemic Nilgiri Tahr, Gaur, Sloth Bear, Nilgiri Langur, Tiger, Leopard, Giant Squirrel, and wild dog; 140 species of birds, including 10 unique to the Western Ghats; more than 100 varieties of butterflies and 20 species of amphibians are also recorded here.