Botanical name:

Dendroconche scandens (Phymatosorus scandens)

Common name(s):

Fragrant fern, mokimoki

About:

A climbing fern species that can be found thriving in the lush, green forests that are located in both the North Island and the upper regions of the South Island. The drooping fronds of this fascinating fern can extend to an impressive length of up to 60cm and exhibit quite a bit of variation in shape and texture, though they typically feature deep, narrow lobes that contribute to their distinctive and attractive appearance. This particular species requires the sturdy support of a tree to climb effectively while thriving in shaded areas, along with a preference for consistently damp soil conditions to sustain its growth and overall health. Unfortunately, this intriguing fern is of very limited availability in the wild, making it a rare find for nature enthusiasts and plant lovers alike.

Natural habitat:

Coastal to lowland, in forest. Dendroconche scandens is a common creeping fern covering rock piles, tree and tree fern trunks and bare ground. Unlike the superficially similar Zealandia pustulata, Dendroconche scandens is much less drought tolerant and so prefers less open, shaded and damper situations.

Growing environment:

Shade, Wetland, Wind & Coastal tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand: North, South and Chatham Islands - widespread from North Cape to Franz Josef (Westland). Also Australia & Lord Howe Island.

Height: variable

Flowering: N/A Spore producing.

Fruiting: N/A

Uses:

Riparian plantings & Forests

How to grow:

Easily grown from rooted pieces of rhizome. Excellent in a hanging basket, large pot, or trained to grow over rocks, and logs but requires a shaded site and needs frequent watering. Once established it rarely requires much attention and has the advantage of being mostly disease and pest free.