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Blechnum parrisiae

Common Rasp-fern

Erect tufted perennial fern spreading from short underground stems to form a groundcover. Sterile and fertile fronds similar. New growth purplish-pink to bronze.

Additional information

  • SynonymDoodia australis, Doodia media ssp. australis
  • FamilyBlechnaceae
  • StoreyLower storey
  • Size30-60 cm x 30-50 cm
  • Plant groupingFerns & Fern Allies
  • LeavesNarrow hard dark green fronds, once divided. Segments oblong, tapered, stalkless except lowest - small, distant attached at midrib. Margins coarsely toothed. Short rough dark stem and midrib.
  • FlowersNon-flowering. 1-2 rows of narrow oblong spore cases on each side of midvein, rarely joining near tip, covered by membranous flap.
  • Bird attractingNo
  • Butterfly attractingNo
  • Frog habitatNo
  • Growing conditionsMoist rich soil beside watercourses in riparian forests or in open forests. Semi shade to dappled shade.
  • Garden useCan form a neat groundcover in ferneries and on moist embankments. Useful in prevention of soil erosion. Suitable for containers. New growth is a feature.
  • Commercially availableGenerally
  • Conservation statusSignificant within the Shire. Known from very few local sites. More common outside the Shire boundary.
Photographer/s: Marilyn Bull ©

Plant Communities

  • 12 Manna Gum Riparian Forest - Dandenongs (EVC 18)
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