Cheilanthes austrotenuifolia
Green Rock Fern
Small clumping perennial herb spreading from short, branched underground stems. Fertile and sterile fronds separate, similar .
Additional information
- SynonymCheilanthes tenuifolia var. tenuifolia
- FamilyPteridaceae (syn. Adiantaceae)
- StoreyLower storey
- Size2-45 cm high
- Plant groupingFerns & Fern Allies
- LeavesErect or drooping bright to dark green triangular fronds 3-10 cm wide, 2-3 times divided, on brick-red to brown grooved stems. Scattered fine hairs and pale scales on central rib and midribs. Final segments shallowly lobed, terminal segment long.
- FlowersNon-flowering. Spore cases partially enclosed by scalloped margins of lobes.
- Bird attractingNo
- Butterfly attractingNo
- Frog habitatNo
- Growing conditionsWell drained soils usually amongst rocks and in crevices, also slopes and valleys in lowlands. Frost tolerant. Exposed positions, semi shade.
- Garden useWhile difficult to establish it is very tough for rockeries and exposed positions provided it has root protection.
- Commercially availableSpecialist fern nursery
- Conservation statusLocally common within its preferred growing conditions
Photo Gallery
Photographer/s: 1 Peter Kinchington ©; 2, 3 Marilyn Bull ©
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