Blechnum chambersii

Lance Water-fern

Semi-erect tufting perennial at the end of short erect rhizome (rooting stem). Sterile and fertile fronds dissimilar.

Additional information

• FamilyBlechnaceae
• StoreyLower storey
• Size0.6 m x 0.6 m
• Plant groupingFerns & Fern Allies
• LeavesRough, thin dark green lance-shaped sterile fronds, once divided; mid leaflets widest. Leaflets sickle-shaped, broad based, blunt-toothed margins. Fertile fronds limp, shorter, segments very narrow, curved. Short shiny stems pale brown, grooved.
• FlowersNon-flowering. Narrow, continuous spore cases covering either side of midvein. Segment margin curved back.
• Bird attractingNo
• Butterfly attractingNo
• Frog habitatNo
• Growing conditionsMoist humus-rich soils arching over creek banks in sheltered gullies of moist to wet forests. Dappled to full shade.
• Garden useFerneries and very sheltered gullies, intolerant of drying winds, sun or drying out.
• Commercially availableNo information available
• Conservation statusLocally relatively common within its preferred growing conditions.
• Aboriginal Use In some areas - food - starchy rhizome eaten raw or roasted

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