Hymenophyllum peltatum

Alpine Filmy-fern

Erect to drooping epiphytic or lithophytic fern, fronds scattered along the rhizome, on a fine creeping rooting stem (rhizome). Stem shining, dark brown. Fertile and sterile segments dissimilar.

Additional information

• FamilyHymenophyllaceae
• StoreyLower storey
• Size4-12 cm long
• Plant groupingEpiphytes
• LeavesOblong translucent dark green fronds with dark vein, twice divided, division on side towards tip only, 1 cell thick; final segments narrow, margins coarsely toothed. Fertile segments shorter, next to midrib. Midrib narrowly winged, brown.
• FlowersNon-flowering. Single egg-shaped spore case enclosed in 2-lipped membranous covering at ends of segments.
• Bird attractingNo
• Butterfly attractingNo
• Frog habitatNo
• Growing conditionsMoist shady wet forests and rainforest, usually growing on granite rocks (lithophytic). Dappled to 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

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