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

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