Phlegmariurus talamancanus is a narrow endemic found in paramos of central Costa Rica and a few localities in western Panama. It differs from Phlegmariurus crassus (with which is co-occurs throughout its range) by a lack of heteroblastic shoot differentiation, slightly larger and often less appressed leaves, and several leaf epidermis characters.

It is a common herb in paramo habitats in the Cordillera de Talamancana of south-central Costa Rica, where this specimen was collected. Note the slightly swollen leaf bases in the close-up image; this is caused by air cavities in the leaf bases. Other prominent Phlegmariurus species at this site are P. crassus and P. attenuatus; several others are rare in these habitats.

Collection Data (W. Testo 231)

Classification & Common Names

General Collection Data
  • Date: 16-01-2013
  • Primary Collector & #: W. Testo 231
  • Collection Party: W.L. Testo
  • Det. History:
  • Habitat: Paramo
  • Habit: Terrestrial
  • Specimen Locations: AAU, VT
Additional Comments

Terrestrial in wet paramo. Growing in shade of Chusquea along bank of small stream near culvert under main road to the radio towers. Plants forming small clumps amongst rocks. Growing with Phlegmariurus attentuatus and Polystichum speciosissimum. Common.

Collection Location