This clumping fern has underground stolons that produce erect divided pale green fronds to 1.2 m (5ft) long (fish bone shape) and in time forms a black fibrous trunk. The fertile fronds are erect and slender appearing in midsummer.

Hardiness zones 9 to 11

Blechnum nudum is naturally found in Australia growing on the east coast from northern Queensland to Victoria and Tasmania, extending to South Australia growing along creek beds amongst rocks commonly in rainforest.

It prefers a moist sheltered semi shaded position and grows in a well drained, moist sandy to light loam that is organic rich and is frost tolerant but drought tender.

The Fishbone Water Fern is grown for its attractive foliage and is planted around water features amongst rocks in small gardens or courtyards. It is also used as an understory plant or grown in a shaded rockery and establishes in 1-2 years from division. This fern is also planted in patio pots, planter boxes, and along shaded borders requiring a moist and protected position. ID 429  

Blechnum (BLEK-num) nudum (new-dum)

Blechnaceae (blek-NAY-see-ee)