588B-2-Pteris-tremula-sp-Helen-moss.jpg

Pteris tremula

Tender Brake

Tufted upright light to yellow-green fern, arching at the tips, on a short erect stem (rhizome).

Additional information

  • FamilyPteridaceae
  • StoreyLower storey
  • Size0.6-1.5 m high
  • Plant groupingFerns & Fern Allies
  • LeavesSoft to firm triangular fronds, divided 2-4 times, to 50 cm wide, hairless or few hairs below on midveins. Oblong stalkless final segments, veins distant; margins finely toothed. Midrib red-brown with narrow deep groove. Long shiny red-brown stem.
  • FlowersNon-flowering. Spore cases in narrow band along margins, extending to base of segment and to tip. Partially covered by recurved margin flap when young.
  • Bird attractingNo
  • Butterfly attractingNo
  • Frog habitatNo
  • Growing conditionsMoist soils in sheltered gullies in wet forests or in exposed rocky sites. Semi shade to full shade.
  • Garden useAn attractive fern for ferneries, moist gullies and containers.
  • Commercially availableSpecialist Australian plant nursery
  • Conservation statusRestricted distribution but may be locally common.
Photographer/s: 1 Chris Clarke NatureShare ©; 2, 3 Helen Moss ©

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