Blechnum spicant “Deer Fern” Polypodiaceae (Blechnacaeae)
Olympic National Park, WA
June 1, 2013
Robert Niese
This fern is mostly found west of the Cascades, but occasionally in Northern Idaho. I was surprised to learn that it has never been recorded in Montana. Blechnum ferns are known for conspicuously dimorphic fertile and infertile fronds. Tall fronds with skinny leaflets are typically spore-bearing like this one here.
Northwest Naturalist 