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.