Bracken Fern - Buyet

Good morning Steemians, before we begin I would like to acknowledge the Traditional Owners on whose land I reside, the Wurundjeri People of the Kulin Nation and pay my respects to elders both past and present. I would like to extend my acknowledgement to all other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the group and all other people and elders from the many cultures and countries that call Australia home.

Today's wonderful topic is native plants and their use within Melbourne and beyond. Today's super plant is the Bracken Fern as known in the Woiwurrung language as Buyet, which is found pretty much all along the Australian coast except in the Northern Territory. If you have done a lot of walking through Victoria's forests you are sure to have passed it many a times especially in cooler areas such as Mt Macedon.

Traditional uses of the Buyet were for bedding as the ferns piled on top of each other are quite springy once lined with possum skin they make the perfect bed.

The root of the Buyet can be eaten once the starch is extracted and roasted, the sap from the plant makes for a great insect repellent.

However before you go out and try for yourselves these plants are deadly and contain ptaquiloside which is a carcinogen and if not handled correctly will kill so please consult your local Wurundjeri Elder or Traditional Owner in your area who can give you a guided tour and ensure your safety.

Have a lovely week!