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

(JPG, 364KB)

(JPG, 318KB)

(JPG, 354KB)

Plant Communities