556B-2-Schizaea-bifida-fl-Daniel-Ohlsen.jpg

Schizaea bifida

Forked Comb-fern

Stiffly erect tufted fern, unbranched or forked once near the top. Spreads by short underground stem (rhizome).

Additional information

  • FamilySchizaeaceae
  • StoreyLower storey
  • Size8-40 cm high
  • Plant groupingFerns & Fern Allies
  • LeavesFine narrow flattened green frond, angular with 2 grooves, similar to stem. Sterile fronds rare, short and unbranched; fertile fronds end with combs 10-18 mm x 5-9 mm, smooth margins with long fine hairs. Stems wiry, brown, becoming green.
  • FlowersNon-flowering. Spore cases on margins of segments.
  • Bird attractingNo
  • Butterfly attractingNo
  • Frog habitatNo
  • Growing conditionsMoist to wet peaty soil in heathland. Semi shade.
  • Garden useInteresting small fern for containers, but unlikely to be available.
  • Commercially availableNever
  • Conservation statusSignificant within the Shire. Known from very few local sites. Scattered outside the Shire.
Photographer/s: Daniel Ohlsen, Royal Botanic Gardens Board ©

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