Blechnum rupestre

Small Rasp-fern

Small tufted perennial fern rising from short underground stems. Sterile and fertile fronds dissimilar, sterile spreading, fertile erect. New growth soft, tinged pink.

Additional information

SynonymDoodia caudata var. caudata
FamilyBlechnaceae
StoreyLower storey
Size10-30 cm x 10-50 cm
Plant groupingFerns & Fern Allies
LeavesNarrow hard dark green fronds, once divided. Segments variable, top joined to form a tail; mid oblong, stalkless, close; lower stalked, distant, heart-shaped. Fertile fronds more than twice as long, segments spaced, very narrow. Short smooth pale stem.
FlowersNon-flowering. Single row of narrow oblong spore cases on each side of midvein, often joining near tip, partially covered by membranous flap on outer edge of case.
Bird attractingNo
Butterfly attractingNo
Frog habitatNo
Growing conditionsMoist rich soil on steep creek banks in riparian forests. Semi shade to dappled shade.
Garden useSmall fern for ferneries or 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.