Byfield fern
Bowenia serrulata
Family: Zamiaceae
What it is like
A small palm like plant. It has a trunk which is underground. The leaves are 1 m long and arch over. They are feather-like. The leaves are twice divided. The leaflets are leathery and oval. They are shiny green and have deep teeth along the edge. New growth is shiny bronze. Male and female flowers are separate and on separate plants. The male cones are oblong. The female cones are round. They occur in groups at ground level. The seeds are round and grey. They are 2 cm across.
There are 2-3 Bowenia species. It has also been put in the family Strangeriaceae.
Where it is found
It grows in highland rainforests in Queensland. Near Rockhampton it grows from sea level to 700 m altitude. It needs some shade. It suits tropical, subtropical and warm temperate climates. It can only tolerate light frost. In Cairns Botanical Gardens.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia (country/location of origin)
How it is used for food
CAUTION The leaves and seeds are toxic. The roots are baked and eaten.
Edible parts
Tuber, root
How it is grown
Plants can be grown from seed.
Only one new frond is produced each year.