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. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Fishbone Water Fern prefers consistently moist soil. As an Australian native, feed it only with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser. For the first year, favour occasional deep watering over frequent shallow drinks so roots move into the surrounding soil.
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
Combine Fishbone Water Fern with plants that share its preference for consistently moist soil and warm-temperate climate. Use an odd-numbered group where space allows, or repeat it at intervals through a longer bed. 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. Current stock is confirmed manually, so register interest above before planning around a specific size.
