Botanical name:

Austroblechnum colensoi

Common name(s):

Colenso’s hard fern, peretao, petako

About:

A creeping fern, known for its adaptability, is typically found thriving in wet forest areas stretching from Auckland southward. The drooping sterile fronds showcase a leathery texture and present a shiny dark green colour, which can vary as they may appear undivided or divided irregularly into a few distinct leaflets. These fronds can grow to an impressive length of up to 60cm. In contrast, the fertile fronds have delicate, thread-like leaflets that add to the plant's unique appearance. This fern thrives in environments that provide plenty of moisture and ample shade, making it particularly well-suited for cultivation in a dedicated fernery.

Natural habitat:

Coastal to montane. Usually within seepages on shaded steep banks, rock overhangs, fringing river gorges & also on sodden ground within cloud forest.

Growing environment:

Shade, Coastal, Wetland & Wind tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s North (from Warawara Forest south), South, Stewart, Chatham and Auckland Islands.

Height: 1m

Flowering: N/A Spore producing.

Fruiting: N/A

Uses:

Forests & Container Friendly.

How to grow:

Difficult. Very slow growing. Requires heavily shaded, cool conditions, in permanently moist soil & will not tolerate drying out.