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Fishbone Fern

Fishbone Fern
Photo: Anthony Kachenko
Invasive Plant
Fishbone Fern
Nephrolepis cordifolia
 

The look of this fern resembles the backbone of a fish, hence its name. A vigorous fern that spreads by spores or a dense rhizome network. It will dominate any shady area it is introduced into and is often found in old established gardens in moist conditions. It is very important to remove the underground rhizomes to effectively eliminate regrowth.

 

HOW IT SPREADS

  • The spores of this fern can travel great distance by water, wind and contaminated soil where thy readily germinate.
  • Often spread by dumping of garden refuse.
  • It can also spread vegetatively from its underground rhizomes.
 
 
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Alternative Plants

Gristle Fern
Photo: Norwood Industries
Alternative Plant Gristle Fern
Blechnum cartilagineum
Climbing and Ground Cover Plants
 

This hardy tufted Australian fern can reach 1 m in height. Fronds appear pink when young and mature to pale green. This fern prefers a sheltered position in organic moist soils.

Hen and Chicken Fern
Photo: Lorna Rose
Alternative Plant Hen and Chicken Fern
Asplenium bulbiferum
Climbing and Ground Cover Plants
 

This popular fern is commonly available and is suitable for indoor or atrium plantings or in a shaded moist position in the garden. It can also be successfully grown in a hanging basket. Fronds are dark green and can reach 1.2 m. The little plantlets produced on the fern fronds are a remarkable feature.

Rasp Fern
Photo: Lorna Rose
Alternative Plant Rasp Fern
Doodia aspera
Climbing and Ground Cover Plants
 

This hardy Australian native fern can reach 35 cm in height. It is well adapted to both sun and shade positions in the garden and produces short creeping rhizomes. New fronds appear pinkishred and mature to green with age. Thrives best in organic moist soils.

 
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