Tmesipteris ovata

Oval Fork-fern

Weeping epiphytic fern ally with narrow leafy stems, unbranched, or branched once. Branching rooting stem (rhizome) but no true roots. Matures in one season.

Additional information

FamilyPsilotaceae
StoreyLower storey
Size10-20 cm long
Plant groupingEpiphytes
LeavesCrowded straight oblong leaves, broader at the tip, 8-14 mm long, small point on blunt tip.
FlowersNon-flowering. Spores in rounded 2-chambered capsule at the base of forked specialised leaves, narrower and shorter than sterile leaves.
Bird attractingNo
Butterfly attractingNo
Frog habitatNo
Growing conditionsGrows on trunks of tree ferns, especially Rough Tree fern, in wet slopes and gullies of wet forests. Full shade. Restricted distribution within the Shire.
Garden useVery specific requirements and delicacy of the plant make it difficult for cultivation.
Commercially availableNever
Conservation statusRare in Victoria with few known populations. Very restricted distribution within the Shire.