Gristle Fern

Description:

This is possibly Blechnum cartilagineum, known as the gristle fern or soft water fern. It is a resilient and abundant fern growing in eastern Australia. Seen in rainforest and eucalyptus forest. New growth is often pink or reddish in colour. It is very tolerant of dry conditions once established in a shady area. Reasonably broad leaves on each frond, lush and green, it seems to thrive in the dappled light under the rainforest canopy. Heavily wooded area. Moist soil and cool conditions, although probably humid in summer.

Habitat:

Subtropical rainforest on the Springbrook Plateau - Springbrook NP, which is protected within the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area.