Polypodium is a medium sized fern genus comprised of around 60 species, with a distribution that encompasses North and South America, Europe and western Asia as well as South Africa. The name Polypodium is derived from ancient Greek ‘poly’ for many and ‘podion’ for little foot which refers to the many knobby protuberances of the rhizomes.

Polypodium vulgare, better known as Common Polypody or simply as Polypody, is a charming, low-growing fern that is loved for its easy care and graceful form. Native to Europe, Asia, and North America, this evergreen perennial provides year-round interest, whether it be used as a ground cover or accent plant.

Polypody is the common name of Polypodium vulgare, an evergreen fern that is native to the temperate regions of Europe, Africa and Eastern Asia. The rhizomes of the fern have been used since ancient times in traditional medicine systems in Europe, America, and Asia to treat a wide variety of ailments including liver and respiratory conditions.