631B-2-Hymenophyllum-flabellatum-hab-David-Francis.jpg

Hymenophyllum flabellatum

Shiny Filmy-fern

Weeping epiphytic fern, fronds scattered along the rhizome, on a fine, wiry creeping rooting stem (rhizome), forming dense curtains. Tuft of straw-coloured hairs at base of shiny dark brown stem.

Additional information

  • FamilyHymenophyllaceae
  • StoreyLower storey
  • Sizefronds 5-25 cm long
  • Plant groupingEpiphytes
  • LeavesLance-shaped translucent pale green fronds, 2-3 times divided, 1 cell thick; leaflets fan-shaped, final segments narrow, terminal segment tapering, margins entire. Midrib winged in upper part.
  • FlowersNon-flowering. Many single spore cases enclosed in broad 2-lipped membranous covering at ends of segments.
  • Bird attractingNo
  • Butterfly attractingNo
  • Frog habitatNo
  • Growing conditionsGrows on tree ferns, trunk bases and fallen logs, often with Crepidomanes venosum, in wet forests. Full shade.
  • 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: 1, 3, 4 Marilyn Bull ©; 2 David Francis NatureShare ©

Plant Communities

  • 04 Alpine Ash Montane Wet Forest (EVC 39)
  • 06 Mountain Ash Wet Forest - Dandenongs (EVC 30)
  • 05 Mountain Ash Forest - Central Highlands (EVC 30)
  • 09 Myrtle Beech Cool Temperate rainforest (EVC31)
  • 10 Southern Sassafras Cool Temperate rainforest (EVC 31)
  • Page 1 of 1