Blechnum gibbum 'Silver Lady' (Dwarf Tree Fern)

The small dwarf tree fern ( Blechnum gibbum ) only reaches a total height of up to 100 cm and is therefore well suited for indoor cultivation. Unlike species of the genera Cyathea or Dicksonia , Blechnum gibbum and Blechnum brasiliense are not true tree ferns (Cyatheales), but rather a result of convergent evolution. Independently of one another, some hard ferns (Blechnaceae) have also developed a tree-like growth form through their upright rhizomes. Over time, a scaly trunk develops, at the top of which sits the crown of leaves.

The species originates from the islands of New Caledonia, Vanuatu and Fiji in Oceania, which is why, according to more recent systematics, the species is also called Oceaniopteris gibba .