Coville's Lipfern
Myriopteris covillei
Care
full sun, part shade
low
Friendly
Desert rocky slopes and limestone areas in the Mojave Desert region of eastern California (Inyo and Mono counties), typically 3000-6000 ft elevation.
Care Guide
Planting
Plant Coville's Lipfern in full sun to part shade in a spot with excellent drainage - this desert native thrives in rocky, well-draining conditions similar to its native mountain crevices and rock bases. Space it where water won't pool around the base, and fall through spring is your best planting window in the Bay Area to let it establish before summer heat.
After Planting
Water moderately during the first growing season to help it establish, then transition to low-water maintenance once it's settled in - this fern is adapted to dry conditions and doesn't want constant moisture. The biggest mistake is overwatering; treat it like the drought-tolerant native it is, and it will reward you with minimal fussing year-round.
Endangered & Threatened Species Supported
California threatened species; population decline in state
Wildlife Supported
Birds
Uses fern clumps for shelter, roosting, and nest concealment in arid scrubland habitats
Nests near and shelters within dense fern patches in desert scrub during breeding season (Apr-Jul)
Uses fern-covered rocky areas for covey roosting and chick shelter during hot daylight hours
Insects
Grazes on fern fronds during warm months; provides forage for insectivorous vertebrates
Mammals
Occasional foliage browsing during spring growth and early summer
Nests and shelters in dense fern colonies on rocky slopes; uses as cover and debris for nest construction
Reptiles
Shelters beneath fern clumps and associated leaf litter for thermoregulation and predator avoidance
Uses frond bases and rocky crevices in fern-dominated microhabitats for diurnal refuge and thermal regulation