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Pteridium esculentumDennstaedtiaceae Bracken Gurgi (gur-gy) to Eora people Danger: toxic rhizomes DescriptionThis hardy fern has glossy leathery fronds (leaves) mostly 0.6-1.5 m long. Spore cases are found around the edges of the underside of fronds. The fern grows from a long creeping rhizome (underground stem) 2-10 mm in diameter, which is densely covered with dark, red-brown hairs. Where it is foundBracken is found in all states but not in the Northern Territory. In New South Wales it occurs all along the coast, tablelands, slopes and to the south-western plains. The fern grows in open forest and regenerates quickly after burning or other disturbance. The roots and rhizomes of this plant hold the soil, while spreading fronds create a shady environment that promotes growth of seedlings. Uses
The bracken can be used for stings of a bull ant or a stinging nettle. If you get some of the bracken and crush it up in your hand until you see some of the sap coming out, then you’d rub it on the sting. |
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