Botanical name:

Deparia peterseni

Common name(s):

About:

This fern is typically found in localised areas in the upper parts of both main islands, thriving in specific ecological niches. It possesses a vigorous creeping rhizome, which allows it to be an effective coloniser of disturbed ground, helping to restore balance in those environments. This fern is notably attractive, showcasing light green feathery fronds that can grow anywhere from 20 to 70cm in height, originating from the rhizome. It is easily cultivated in a lightly shaded area, provided that it is planted in good, rich soil that supports its growth.

Natural habitat:

Coastal to lowland (rarely montane). A weedy fern of river flats, distrubed forest, forest margins, rough pasture, willow car and urban situations. Prefers damp ground and/or semi-shade to heavy shade.

Growing environment:

Shade, Wetland, Wind & Coastal tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s Kermadec Islands (Raoul Island), North and South Islands. In the North Island common from Te Paki to the southern Waikato and Bay of Plenty, thence less common but evidently expanding its range southwards. In the South Island the current southern limit is in the vicinity of Westport. Also Australia’s East coast, Malesia, Polynesia and Norfolk Island.

Height: 70cm

Flowering: N/A Spore producing

Fruiting: N/A

Uses:

Riparian plantings, Forests, Pioneer Plantings & Wetlands

How to grow:

Easily grown from the division of established plants and also by spore, and is often found as a natural arrival in suitable gardens - at least in the northern part of its New Zealand range. It is also a fern that is inclined to become weedy and aggressive in most garden situations. Deparia flourishes in a semi-shaded situation, planted in moist, fertile soil. However, it will tolerate a diversity of conditions. In cooler areas it has a semi deciduous habit, dying down in winter and resprouting in spring.