Botanical name:

Asplenium lyallii

Common name(s):

Lyall’s spleenwort

About:

This fern is found throughout New Zealand, thriving on limestone soils and rocky surfaces from sea level to subalpine areas. It is more common on the drier eastern sides of both islands. A highly variable species, it exhibits differences in frond length and degree of division. Generally, its fronds are deep green, glossy, and can reach up to 65cm in length. The leaflets near the base of the stem are lobed, while those higher up are typically simple. This fern adapts well to dry conditions, preferring a shady location with light sandy soil and some lime.

Natural habitat:

Coastal to alpine. A basicole favouring base rich substrates but especially calcareous rocks (limestone and marble) and basalt rock. In tall forest, scrub or on exposed rock surfaces. Often located in cave entrances.

Growing environment:

Frost, Shade, Coastal & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s North (from Port Waikato south to Wellington), South (North-West Nelson otherwise mainly eastern), Stewart and Chatham Islands

Height: 65cm

Flowering: N/A Spore producing

Fruiting: N/A

Uses:

Riparian plantings, Forests, Pioneer Plantings & Container friendly

How to grow:

Although rather slow growing this is a very attractive species which is excellent in a pot or on a shaded rock wall. Propagation is achieved by spore or division.