Ornatec InternationalSpecies reference sheet ยท ornatecinternational.com
Drynaria roosii
Basket Fern
Drynaria roosii is an epiphytic fern that builds its own soil. Sterile brown nest fronds form a persistent basket at the base of the plant, collecting leaf litter and moisture, while the green foliage fronds arch out from it to a metre or more.
Mounted on a trunk, a rock face or a wall, it produces one of the strongest textural effects available in shaded tropical planting, and it tolerates a dry rest between wet seasons better than most ferns.
Specifications
- Height0.6 to 1.0 metres
- Width0.6 to 1.0 metres, spreading by creeping rhizome
- Native toSouthern China, Taiwan and Indochina
- FoliageTwo frond types: persistent brown nest fronds at the base and large deeply lobed green foliage fronds; semi-deciduous in the dry season
- Growth rateModerate
Conditions
- SoilEpiphytic; needs a coarse free-draining organic medium, or mounting on bark or rock
- LightPartial shade
- WaterModerate; tolerates a drier rest once the rhizome is established
- ClimateThrives in humid subtropical and tropical regions
Additional Features
- UsesTrunk and wall mounting, green wall panels, shaded rockeries and tropical understorey texture
- SpacingMount 0.6 to 0.8 metres apart, or allow a single plant to colonise a host
- Low MaintenanceLeave the brown nest fronds in place; they are part of the plant, not dead material
- Pest ResistanceGenerally untroubled where airflow is adequate
- FormDistinctive two-tier structure of basket and arching fronds
- Cultural SignificanceThe rhizome, known as gu sui bu, has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine
The Basket Fern is a distinctive epiphytic feature for shaded tropical walls, trunks and rockwork.
Availability by project review. Sizes, quantities, origin and export readiness are confirmed after your plant schedule is reviewed against destination, timing and quarantine requirements. MEWA certified for supply into Saudi Arabia; Australian Export Registered Establishment.
Enquiries: sales@ornatecinternational.com
310 Donkin Rd, Utchee Creek QLD 4871, Australia
Prepared 09 September 2026