Blechnum L.
Coenosori in a continuous or almost continuous line on each side of the midrib covering the vascular commissures, having a membranous indusium opening inwards towards the costa. Veins of the sterile fronds free Blechnum
Fertile and sterile fronds dissimilar
Sterile fronds pinnate, pinnatisect or, if pinnatifid into numerous segments, then the segments not noticeably constricted at the base
Sterile frond-segments (pinnae) stalked except a few of the upper pairs. Rhizome erect or shortly creeping
Lower lateral pinnae not or almost imperceptibly reduced in size. Rhizome shortly creeping with the fronds at intervals. Scales of the rhizome glossy, dark brown with a paler border. Plants erect, up to 120 cm high. Widespread. RF. Terrestrial, growing in soil usually on the banks of creeks. Hard Water Fern Blechnum wattsii