Pteridium esculentum
Common Name:
Austral Bracken
Family:
Distribution (from Flora of Victoria):
All regions except Murray Mallee, Lowan Mallee, Riverina (CDEHJKMNPRSTUVWXYZ) all States
Map - Australasian Virtual Herbarium
Distribution and ecological preference at Wilsons Promontory (if known):
Can dominate the understory in dry to wet forests and woodlands. Resprouts and spreads vigorously after fire so can dominate the understory of forests that are burnt too frequently
1
Flower Description:
N/A
Habit:
Fern with fronds to 2.5 m long with thick, coarse creeping rhizome
1,2
Distinguishing characteristics (within family/genus):
The most common and widespread fern in Victoria. Distinguished by its coarse, hairy rhizome and rigid, harsh fronds. Grows in a wide range of environments, including dry areas
2
Images:
Links to more images:
Conservation status:
Not threatened
References:
1
Meagher, D. and Kohout, M. (2001). “A field guide to Wilsons Promontory”. Oxford University Press, South Melbourne, Vic.
2
Walsh, N. G. and Entwisle, T. J. “Flora of Victoria”, volumes 2 (1994), 3 (1996) and 4 (1999). Inkata Press, Port Melbourne, Victoria