Asplenium ceterach L.
Diagnostic description:
A perennial, with linear-spathulate to oblong coriaceous leaves, between 5 and 15 cm long, though they could be up to 20 cm long. Leaves arranged in a dense tuft, pinnately lobed with alternate semicircular to oblong pinnae. The undersides are densely covered with golden-brown scales, the upper sides dark green. During the summer the leaves curl up with the scales facing outwards.
Distribution:
Local: Common and widespread throughout the Upper Rock.
Global: Found in north Africa, western and central Europe and the Mediterranean region.
Ecology:
Spores ripen between (October) November, December, January, February, March, April and May (June).
Habitat:
Grows in limestone crevices and on old walls.
Uses:
A medicinal plant; used for the relief of gall bladder ailments.