Microsorum pustulatum ssp. pustulatum

Kangaroo Fern

Climbing epiphytic or lithophytic fern, fronds erect to pendant, widely separated. Long creeping fleshy grey-green rhizome (rooting stem).

Additional information

• SynonymMicrosorum diversifolium
• FamilyPolypodiaceae
• StoreyMiddle storey
• Sizefronds 5-50 cm long
• Plant groupingEpiphytes
• LeavesFronds variable, undivided, lobed or once divided with 1-9 pairs of lobes; leathery shiny light green with thick wavy margins.
• FlowersNon-flowering. Round spore cases in 2 rows midway between margin and midvein.
• Bird attractingNo
• Butterfly attractingNo
• Frog habitatNo
• Growing conditionsCommon on tree ferns but also branches and trunks of trees, on rocks and logs and occasionally along the ground in wet forests and rainforests. Semi shade to full shade.
• Garden useGrow on tree ferns and trees in moist shady sites such as ferneries and gullies.
• Commercially availableSpecialist Australian plant nursery
• Conservation statusLocally common within its preferred growing conditions

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