Botanical Name
Gleichenia microphylla
Common Name
Scrambling Coral Fern
Description
Scrambling Coral Fern is a distinctive native groundcover fern renowned for its unique coral-like fronds and scrambling growth habit that creates interesting displays in Australian gardens. This attractive species produces repeatedly branched fronds that resemble coral formations, creating dense mats of fine-textured foliage that spreads naturally through underground rhizomes. The bright green, finely divided fronds provide attractive evergreen coverage that maintains year-round appeal in suitable conditions. Hardy and adaptable once established, it thrives in moist, well-drained acidic soils and partial shade to filtered light positions with consistent moisture availability. Perfect for naturalized areas, groundcover, and areas where native ferns with unique growth habits create interesting landscape features in suitable conditions.
Plant Category
Ferns
Size (H x W)
Height: 30-60cm, Spread: 1-3 meters (spreading)
Gleichenia microphylla naturally occurs in southeastern Australia’s heathlands and open forests, thriving in moist, well-drained acidic soils with good drainage and partial shade to filtered light exposure in temperate climates.
Cultural SIgnificance
As part of Australia’s ancient fern flora, this species represents the prehistoric plant communities that were traditionally valued by Aboriginal peoples for their role in heathland ecosystems and as indicators of specific soil and moisture conditions.
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