Fishbone Fern

Nephrolepis cordifolia

“A fern with narrow erect fronds, often spreading over large areas.” – NPOS p.310

Everyone except me ( neighbors, mum ) seemed to know all about the fishbone fern. Even though it’s a native to Australia where it naturally occurs in Queensland and Northern NSW, it’s considered a weed in Sydney. It does tend to take over parts of the garden, especially places I’ve cleared of other weeds.

The plant sketches in NPOS are usually very good, but for the Fishbone Fern I didn’t think it looked like the plant I saw. I checked a few other sources to make sure I had the right plant.

I’ll be cutting this back in the garden.

Fishbone Fern in the back garden, scheduled for termination

Fishbone Fern frond detail

Fishbone Fern frond closeup

more info:

Fishbone Fern on Eurobodalla Council Fishbone Fern on Warringah Council Fishbone Fern on the Atlas of Living Australia

• Fern
• Native
• Nephrolepis
• Nephrolepis Cordifolia
• Weed