Fossil Palm Frond

Fossil Palm Frond

Sabalites sp.

Lower Eocene

Green River Formation, Wyoming, USA

Framed and suited for mounting, measuring 47 ¾ x 38 x 2 ½ inches (121.3 x 96.2 x 6.4 cm) 

Because of the slow and lengthy process of fossilization, flora matter is rarely preserved in the fossil record, usually decaying long before it can have a chance to be preserved in situ. The limestone deposits of the ancient Fossil Lake System of Western Wyoming are one of the few places where dead flora and fauna was buried quickly enough by silt and mud to preserve this softer material. Even with such advantageous conditions, however, palm fronds are a rare discovery. Their thin and delicate structure often means they remain hidden between the sedimentary layers and even then are rarely intact or complete.

PROVENANCE

Private Florida collection