This fern has a long-creeping rhizome that branches and develops roots at the nodes and forms a clump. The upright-arching mid to dark green divided fronds have slender stiff texture leaflets and the fertile fronds are similar and appear during midsummer.

Hardiness zones 9 to 12 

Blechnum indicum is naturally found from Malaysia and Polynesia to Australia from northern to southern Queensland to Sydney in New South Wales and the Northern Territory. It grows along the margins of swamps and lakes in brackish water tolerating inundation.

It prefers a semi-shaded position but tolerates an open sunny position on most well drained moist soils and is frost and drought tender.

The Swamp Water Fern is grown for its foliage and clumping habit. It is planted in along water courses or around water features in small or native gardens. It is also planted in moist rockeries and as a fernery specimen. It establishes in 1 to 2 years but is not commonly cultivated and may be difficult to obtain requiring a specialist nursery. ID 1322

Blechnum (BLEK-num) indicum (in-de-kum)

Blechnaceae (blek-NAY-see-ee)