An identification book for the native ferns of Florida.This field guide, the first in 25 years to treat this amazing variety of ferns, catalogs and illustrates all of Florida's native and naturalized fern species. Color plates feature more than 200 images, some of which include rare species never before illustrated in color. Rare and hard-to-find species such as some of our spleenworts and filmy ferns are included, as well as common species like the cinnamon fern pictured on the front cover.

Other important features of the book include a complete glossary, a discussion of the fern life cycle and structure, a history of fern study in Florida, a discussion of some of the state's best natural ferneries, and an extensive bibliography.

Gil Nelson is also the author of other books in this series, The Trees of Florida, and The Shrubs and Woody Vines of Florida.