Lepidodendron Scal Tree Bark Fossil
Lepidodendron cf. aculeatum • Body fossil, plant impression and compression
Geological Period
Carboniferous
Estimated Age
359 to 299 million years old
Preservation Type
Carbonization and iron oxide-stained mineral impression
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good. The specimen shows clear structural surface patterns though weathered, with minor surface erosion and iron staining obscuring some fine details.
Taxonomic Classification
Phylum: Tracheophyta, Class: Lycopsida, Order: Lepidodendrales, Family: Lepidodendraceae, Genus: Lepidodendron
Morphological Description
Features distinctive diamond-shaped or rhomboidal leaf cushions arranged in diagonal spirals across the surface. Visible leaf scars are centrally positioned within each cushion, along with lateral accessory marks known as ligule pits and parichnos scars.
Rock Matrix
Ironstone nodule / silty shale matrix with heavy limonite and goethite weathering
Formation & Location
Mazon Creek Formation, Illinois, USA or European coal measure deposits
Size & Dimensions
Approximately 8 cm in length, 4 cm in width, consistent with fragments of medium-sized lycopod branches
Value & Rarity
Estimated Market Value
$25 - $75
Auction Estimate
$30 - $60
Rarity Assessment
Common, frequently found in coal measures and ironstone concretions globally
Scientific Significance
Provides crucial evidence of the immense swamp forests of the Carboniferous period, contributing to our understanding of early vascular plant evolution, atmospheric oxygen spikes, and ancient tropical wetland paleoecology.
Preparation Recommendations
Gentle mechanical cleaning with a soft brush. Avoid harsh acid treatments due to delicate carbon film preservation. Store in a stable, low-humidity environment to prevent further iron oxidation.
Notable Features
The distinctive grid-like or scale-like pattern of leaf cushions gives this fossil its classic 'scaly tree' appearance, highlighted by warm yellowish-brown iron oxide mineralization.