Maidenhair fern was a popular basket plant usually found in bathrooms in the 1980’s. March’s weed of the month can easily be mistaken for Maidenhair fern.
Japanese climbing fern can be found in the Noosa hinterland but would have no trouble growing closer to the coast. Once correctly identified, a quick response is necessary to stop it reproducing and spreading via spores.
To distinguish it from native ferns, take a close look at the leaf shape. The exotic species has leaves that look and feel like feathers. The Japanese climbing fern grows well in full sun whereas the native ones like a bit more shade.
Common name: Japanese climbing fern
Scientific name: Lygodium japonica
Native to: East Asia
Family: Schizaeaceae
Habit: Vine
Dispersal method: Spores
More information can be found at Japanese climbing fern
Michelle Newall
