587B-1-Pteris-comans-hab-R-Hill-ANBG.jpg

Pteris comans

Netted Brake

Tufted upright dark green fern, arching at the tips, on a short erect stem (rhizome).

Additional information

  • FamilyPteridaceae
  • StoreyLower storey
  • Size0.8-2 m high
  • Plant groupingFerns & Fern Allies
  • LeavesSoft broadly-triangular fronds, divided 3-4 times, to 75 cm wide, few short hairs below on midveins. Oblong stalkless final segments with network of veins below; margins broadly toothed. Midrib yellowish with narrow deep groove. Long brown stem.
  • FlowersNon-flowering. Spore cases in narrow band along margins, extending along base of segment but not to tip. Partially covered by recurved margin flap when young.
  • Bird attractingNo
  • Butterfly attractingNo
  • Frog habitatNo
  • Growing conditionsMoist to wet gullies in rainforest. Full shade.
  • Garden useDifficult to cultivate. Requires permanently moist shaded fernery.
  • Commercially availableNo information available
  • Conservation statusRare in Victoria with few known populations. Known from a few sites within the Dandenong Ranges where it is rare.
Photographer/s: 1 R. Hill ©, Australian National Botanic Gardens; 2-4 Marilyn Bull ©

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