Abstract
Sticherus flabellatus (R.Br.) St. John, common name umbrella fern is currently bush harvested from wild populations in eastern Australia. It is a perennial fern in the family Gleicheniaceae and produces attractive shiny, dark brown stems with contrasting bright green foliage. The fern is used as a foliage filler in floral arrangements in both local and overseas markets. Because of the increasing demand for this product, bush harvesting has increased dramatically and is considered unsustainable. S. flabellatus is difficult to propagate, as are other members of the family Gleicheniaceae. A system of collecting, processing and storage of Sticherus spores has been developed. Spores have been introduced into tissue culture successfully and sporophytes have been produced. Single genotypes have been selected and multiplied. Ex vitro transfer and acclimatisation have yet to be developed. The aim of this research are to domesticate the species, select 'elite' forms and introduce them into commercial production. Substantial progress has been achieved.
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