Sue, The Burrawang Fern grows in profusion in some areas and can be seen at it's best on the road down the Clyde Mountain to Bateman's Bay where it is growing in amongst the Spotted Gum and is most picturesque. I think the area there is called the Burrawang State Forest. There are several different species I think - Macrozamia communis being this one. I'm not an expert on it, but I think it is poisonous to stock. As you say it sounds a bit sus that he died from a cut inflicted by it. It is rather sharp and could give you a nasty cut, but... John McInerney COWRA NSW AUSTRALIA (Hope I'm on the map) -----Original Message----- From: Peter Hewitt <phewitt@ezylink.net.au> To: AUS-NSW-SE-L@rootsweb.com <AUS-NSW-SE-L@rootsweb.com> Date: Monday, 7 December 1998 8:54 Subject: Burrawang fern >2x Gt Grandfather is said to have died as a result of chopping down a >Burrawang fern. His death certificate states 'Vegetable poisoning in a >wound' 'By certificate of Elizabeth Walker, widow.' He (John Walker) >died 1874 at Kangaroo Valley. It all sounds a bit suspicious to me. I >found there is a Burragorang fern but cannot find a reference to a >Burrawang fern. Any horticulturalists suggest what this plant might be >or give a description? I imagine it growing in profusion and John >Walker was clearing the land when he sustained his 'wound'. > >Any suggestions appreciated. > >Sue > >______________________________