Atlantic Forest

In the central to southern parts of South America, you will find a unique species of holly that not only grows wild as an understory shrub but also has a large economic impact on countries in its native region. Ilex paraguariensis, commonly referred to as yerba maté (maté for short), is prized not primarily for ornamental reasons but as a caffeinated refreshment!

While hiking the Atlantic Forest of South America, I relished the sight of mosses, orchids, bamboos, and bromeliads. However, my favorite experience – my once-in-a-blue-moon-moment – my bucket list item – that one thing I could not wait to see – was a fern. But not just any fern. A fern in the air. With a trunk. And one heck of a story to tell. A Tree Fern.