Actiniopteris australis

Actiniopteris australis, the Eyelash Fern, produces tiny, stiff, fan-shaped fronds on wiry black stems that give it the appearance of a miniature palm tree rather than anything you would expect from the fern world. The fronds are deeply divided and radiate outward like the ribs of a hand-held fan, and the whole plant stays remarkably small and compact. It is slow growing and unusual enough to stop people mid-sentence when they spot it on a shelf.

Origins
Native to arid and semi-arid regions of Africa, India, and the Middle East, Actiniopteris australis grows on rocky, well-drained substrates in full sun to partial shade. It is one of the few ferns adapted to dry conditions.

Soil and Substrate
Our Fern Premium Potting Mix provides a peat-free base, but because this species prefers drier conditions than most ferns, we recommend adding extra perlite for sharper drainage.