Plant
Actiniopteris australis
Actiniopteris australisAlso known as Fan Fern, Eyelash Fern, Ray Fern
Actiniopteris australis is a miniature, drought-hardy fern celebrated for its striking fan-shaped fronds that resemble tiny palm leaves. Adapted to harsh rock crevices across Africa and southern Asia, it acts as a resurrection plant, shriveling into brittle clusters during severe dry spells and rapidly unfurling when rains return. Its creeping rhizome anchors securely into minuscule fissures, helping it colonize sun-baked microhabitats where few other ferns can survive.
Drought-TolerantRock-DwellingResurrection Plant
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & preyAutotrophic (photosynthesis)
Predators
- Herbivorous insects
- Snails
ThreatsRock quarrying, severe prolonged droughts, and overcollection
HabitatsRock crevices, granite outcrops, cliffs, and dry scrublands
Life spanPerennial (several to many years)
Classification
- FamilyPteridaceae
- SpeciesActiniopteris australis
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
- Observation: Look along shaded granite clefts and cliff ledges where dew or runoff collects.
- Timing: Visit shortly after seasonal rains to see the vibrant green fronds fully open.
- Tread carefully: Avoid prying plants from fissures, as root systems stabilize fragile rock.
Close Relative (c) Siddarth Machado, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
Same Family (c) Manuel R Popp, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Manuel R Popp · cc-by
Image unavailableSame Family
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