About Lindsaea linearis Sw.
Lindsaea linearis Sw. is commonly called the screw fern, named for the potential twisting appearance of its fronds. It has a creeping dark stem, and its fronds can reach up to 50 cm (20 inches) in length. This small fern has a widespread distribution across many regions of Australia, and also occurs in New Zealand and New Caledonia. It grows in a range of habitats, most often near swamps, other moist areas, rocks, heathland, or open forest. It can be distinguished from the similar necklace fern by its dark stem; the necklace fern has a green stem. The species was first described by Swedish botanist Olof Swartz in 1801, and it retains its original scientific name. Two varieties are currently recognised: Lindsaea linearis var. linearis and Lindsaea linearis var. cuneata.
