This fern has a stout creeping rhizome that is covered in soft silky brown hairs and forms a clump. It has erect yellow-green triangular-shaped fronds that droop at the ends and the fertile fronds appear in summer.

Hardiness zones 8 to 9

Calochlaena dubia is naturally found in Australia growing on the east coast from Queensland to New South Wales, Victoria and extending to Tasmania in eucalypt forests and rainforests.

It prefers a protected shady position and grows in moderately well drained, moist to wet acidic soils with wind, frost and drought protection.

Soft Bracken is grown for its spreading habit and soft foliage. It is planted in moist gully settings or along shaded borders. It is also planted around water features and as an understorey plant on embankments. It has a moderate growth rate and spreads 300 mm (1ft) per year. It can be grown in tubs and planter boxes or used in shaded courtyards and requires little care. ID 882

Note:
It requires room to grow and is confused with 'Bracken' Pteridium esculentum.

Calochlaena(kal-oh-KLAY-nuh) dubia(DOO-bee-uh)

Dicksoniaceae(DIK-so-nee-AY-see-ee)