This epiphytic fern has a white fleshy creeping rhizome that forms a small clump. It has long green strap-like pendant sterile fronds that commonly emerge from the base of Platycerium species and the sausage-like fertile pinnae are short and thick.

Hardiness zones 11 to 12

Ophioglossum pendulum is naturally found in Australia growing in the tropics from northern New South Wales to Queensland and extends to New Guinea, Madagascar, Hawaii and Japan. It commonly grows with a symbiotic relationship with Platycerium species in its peaty base but is also found in the debris collected in hollow trunks, only in humid tropical regions (rainforests).  

It prefers a semi-shaded, wind protected position and grows in composted organic material that is moist and fertile and is drought and frost tender. 

The Ribbon Fern is grown for its pendant foliage as a specimen from the base of hanging baskets or with Platycerium species in a shaded bush house in hot climates or under glass in cool regions. It is also used in rainforest settings on the coast and lower mountains establishing in 4-6 years. This fern may be difficult to obtain requiring a specialist nursery. ID 362

Ophioglossum (OH-fee-oh-GLOSS-um) pendulum  (PEN-dew-lum)

Ophioglossaceae (OH-fee-oh-GLOSS-AY-see-ee)