Botanical name:

Doodia aspera

Common name(s):

Prickly rasp fern

About:

It is likely that this distinctive fern is now found only in cultivation, as it has been known to exist in the wild from just a few scattered localities in the far northern regions. This particular fern boasts an erect growth habit, spreading by means of underground stolons, and features rough-textured fronds that can reach impressive heights of up to 60cm. The fronds display a striking pinkish-red coloration when they are young, and the narrow, undivided leaflets tend to be wider towards the middle. This fern prefers to thrive in a somewhat dry site that receives light shade and is capable of growing well in fairly open conditions, making it a versatile choice for various landscapes.

Natural habitat:

The species has been recorded only from Northland where it once grew in coastal scrub and inland under rawirinui (Kunzea robusta) forest.

Growing environment:

Sun, Shade, Wind, Coastal & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

Probably now extinct in New Zealand, said to have occurred at one site near Waiomio, Kawakawa, in Northland.

Height: 60cm

Flowering: N/A Spore producing.

Fruiting: N/A

Uses:

Riparian plantings, Forests & Pioneer Plantings.

How to grow:

Easy from spores and rooted pieces. Once established it is rather fast growing and makes an excellent ground cover under tall trees, or on exposed, hard clay soils. The species is cold sensitive - much nursery stock is of Australian origin, and specimens from Tomakanga Pa, Tom Bowling Bay are now known to be hybrids with Doodia australis - they make a fine garden plant and being sterile cannot cross with other Doodia species.