A fern of cliffs and rock outcrops, often in areas where traces of lime are found within the rock (New York Natural Heritage Program 2004). Rocky slopes and ledges, on a variety of substrates including limestone and graninte (Flora of North America 1993). Cliffs and shale outcrops, mostly in subacid soil (Gleason and Cronquist 1991). Dry rocky ledges (Cobb 1984). Cliffs and rocky slopes or gravelly banks (Fernald 1970).

Calcareous cliff community* A community that occurs on vertical exposures of resistant, calcareous bedrock (such as limestone or dolomite) or consolidated material; these cliffs often include ledges and small areas of talus. * probable association but not confirmed Cliff community* A community that occurs on vertical exposures of resistant, non-calcareous bedrock (such as quartzite, sandstone, or schist) or consolidated material; these cliffs often include ledges and small areas of talus. * probable association but not confirmed

Roadcut cliff/slope* A sparsely vegetated cliff or steep slope, along a road, that was created by blasting or digging during road construction. * probable association but not confirmed Shale cliff and talus community* A community that occurs on nearly vertical exposures of shale bedrock and includes ledges and small areas of talus. Talus areas are composed of small fragments that are unstable and steeply sloping; the unstable nature of the shale results in uneven slopes and many rock crevices. * probable association but not confirmed