Blechnum rupestre
Small Rasp-fern
Small tufted perennial fern rising from short underground stems. Sterile and fertile fronds dissimilar, sterile spreading, fertile erect. New growth soft, tinged pink.
Additional information
- SynonymDoodia caudata var. caudata
- FamilyBlechnaceae
- StoreyLower storey
- Size10-30 cm x 10-50 cm
- Plant groupingFerns & Fern Allies
- LeavesNarrow hard dark green fronds, once divided. Segments variable, top joined to form a tail; mid oblong, stalkless, close; lower stalked, distant, heart-shaped. Fertile fronds more than twice as long, segments spaced, very narrow. Short smooth pale stem.
- FlowersNon-flowering. Single row of narrow oblong spore cases on each side of midvein, often joining near tip, partially covered by membranous flap on outer edge of case.
- Bird attractingNo
- Butterfly attractingNo
- Frog habitatNo
- Growing conditionsMoist rich soil on steep creek banks in riparian forests. Semi shade to dappled shade.
- Garden useSmall fern for ferneries or on moist embankments. Useful in prevention of soil erosion. Suitable for containers. New growth is a feature.
- Commercially availableGenerally
- Conservation statusSignificant within the Shire. Known from very few local sites. More common outside the Shire boundary.
Photo Gallery
Photographer/s: Peter Kinchington ©
Plant Communities