629B-2-Hymenophyllum-australe-sp-Marilyn-Gray.jpg

Hymenophyllum australe

Austral Filmy-fern

Erect epiphytic or lithophytic fern, fronds scattered along the rhizome, on a fine, wiry creeping rooting stem (rhizome), forming dense mats. Prominent wrinkled green wing to base of green to brown stem.

Additional information

  • FamilyHymenophyllaceae
  • StoreyLower storey
  • SizeFronds 6-20 cm long
  • Plant groupingEpiphytes
  • LeavesLacy triangular to egg-shaped translucent dark green fronds with dark vein, 2-3 times divided, 1 cell thick; final segments short, narrowly oblong, margins entire. Midrib as stem.
  • FlowersNon-flowering. Single or pairs of spore cases enclosed in broad, deeply 2-lipped membranous covering at ends of segments.
  • Bird attractingNo
  • Butterfly attractingNo
  • Frog habitatNo
  • Growing conditionsGrows on tree ferns, trunks, rocks and decaying logs in shaded gullies of wet mountain forests.
  • Garden useVery specific requirements and delicacy of the plant make it difficult for cultivation. Grow in moist ferneries mounted on tree ferns.
  • Commercially availableNever
  • Conservation statusLocally common within its preferred growing conditions
Photographer/s: Marilyn Bull ©

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