Botanical name:

Austroblechnum banksii

Common name(s):

Shore hard fern

About:

An endemic fern known for its unique characteristics has a widespread yet localised distribution in coastal habitats found on both major islands, particularly thriving on wet rocks and in areas where seepage occurs. The narrow, ladder-like sterile fronds can reach lengths of up to 40-50cm, and the dark green, oblong leaflets exhibit a somewhat stiff texture. On the other hand, the fertile fronds display narrower and more widely spaced leaflets, while the overall growth habit of the fern is tufted. This species shows a preference for damp, light soil and grows optimally in cool situations, whether in the open or under light shade, demonstrating its adaptability to specific environmental conditions.

Natural habitat:

A terrestrial fern confined to damp rocks, overhangs, rock crevices, shaded seepages, or stream banks close to the sea (up to 200m)

Growing environment:

Frost, Sun, Shade, Salt, Wetland, Wind, Coastal & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s North, South & Stewart Islands.

Height: 50cm

Flowering: N/A Spore producing.

Fruiting: N/A

Uses:

Riparian plantings, Forests, Pioneer Plantings & Container Friendly.

How to grow:

Easily grown from fresh spore or division.