An Australian native fern forming a neat shuttlecock of soft, fishbone-patterned fronds above a short, slowly developing trunk. Ideal massed beside ponds and in moist, shaded ferneries.
At a glance
- Plant type: Fern
- Mature size: 1 m H × 1 m W
- Aspect: part shade or morning sun and shade and low-light positions
- Water: consistently moist soil
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Australian native
About Fishbone Water Fern
Botanically, Blechnum nudum is a moderate-growing fern in the Blechnaceae family, native to Australia. It reaches around 1 m tall and 1 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage.
Where to grow Fishbone Water Fern
Fishbone Water Fern suits warm-temperate and subtropical climates and grows best in part shade or morning sun and shade and low-light positions. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Fishbone Water Fern does best in acidic and free-draining soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Fishbone Water Fern is consistently moist soil. As an Australian native, feed it only with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Fishbone Water Fern in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Fishbone Water Fern in the garden
Fishbone Water Fern earns its place for a feature or specimen planting and a shade tree.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Fishbone Water Fern with other plants that enjoy the same consistently moist soil and warm-temperate climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm. It combines naturally with other Australian natives in a habitat or water-wise garden.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Fishbone Water Fern
Plant Sale lists Fishbone Water Fern as potted plants. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it lands.