Botanical name:

Davallia tasmanii

Common name(s):

Davallia, Three Kings Davallia

About:

This fascinating fern is confined entirely in its natural habitat to the remote and unique Three Kings Islands, where it thrives in two distinct environments. It grows both epiphytically on trees, where it can access sunlight and moisture, and terrestrially under dense scrub, where it forms impressive clumps that can be quite striking. The triangular fronds can grow to an impressive length of about 40cm, displaying a beautiful yellowish-green colour and featuring much-divided leaflets that enhance its overall appearance. This fern prefers a dry situation in light shade, making it well-suited for various garden settings. Additionally, it is suitable for growing in a container, adding versatility to its cultivation options.

Natural habitat:

Mainly terrestrial but also present as a low epiphyte and also on fallen logs and branches. In full sun or light shade.

Growing environment:

Sun, Shade, Wind & Coastal tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s Three Kings islands group. Present on North-East, Manawa Tawhi (Great) South West, West Islands and also Arbutus and Hinemoa Rocks in the Princes Group

Height: 40cm

Flowering: N/A spore producing

Fruiting: N/A

Uses:

Riparian plantings & Container Friendly

How to grow:

Can be grown from spores (rather slow) and rooted pieces. Rhizome cuttings strike easily enough though they can be slow to take. Resents root disturbance, so once established it is better left alone. Easy in a pot, and does very well even when root bound. Prefers a sunny situation in a well drained potting medium (bark is ideal). Will grow in a garden provided it is kept free from competing plants. Frost tender.