How did they do this? By evolving in ways to survive, even while flowering plants became dominant. This is why many are adapted to shade, being better able to use the limited light found under large trees than most other vascular plants.
In dry, desert climates, ferns use various strategies to survive. Some do this by reflecting sunlight away. Especially amazing are those are desiccation-tolerant – able to lose almost all internal water, yet revive when water becomes available again.
Few plants are used as mascots for sports teams. But the All Blacks, a powerhouse rugby team from New Zealand, have discovered the strength of these remarkable plants by using the silver fern
(Alsophila tricolor) as their insignia. “The opposing team surely cowers in fear at the terrifying frond.”
