Botanical name:

Doodia australis

Common name(s):

Rasp fern

About:

A common fern found in coastal and lowland areas of the North Island as well as the upper South Island, this species displays a distinctive tufted habit. It has the ability to spread by stolons, allowing it to form quite large colonies over time. The young growth exhibits a striking pinkish-red coloration, while the mature fronds take on a deep, dark green hue. These fronds can grow to lengths of 60cm or more and are characterised by their narrow, ladder-like shape, featuring undivided leaflets that possess a somewhat raspish texture. This fern thrives best in sunnier locations, where the vibrant red colouring becomes even more pronounced and aesthetically pleasing. Additionally, it is quite useful as a ground-cover plant on a clay bank, as it demonstrates a remarkable tolerance for relatively dry conditions.

Natural habitat:

Coastal to lowland in open or forested sites, within light scrub, in rough pasture, and even known as a weedy fern of urban gardens and environments.

Growing environment:

Frost, Drought, Sun, Shade, Wind, Coastal, Clay & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s Kermadec Islands (Raoul and Macauley Islands), Three Kings, North and South Islands from Te Paki south to Wellington in the North, the Marlborough Sounds, north-west Nelson and Banks Peninsula in the South. Abundant north of the Waikato, otherwise scarce. Present in Australia, Norfolk and Lord Howe Islands.

Height: 60cm

Flowering: N/A Spore producing.

Fruiting: N/A

Uses:

Riparian plantings, Forests, Ground cover & Pioneer Plantings.

How to grow:

Extremely easily grown from fresh spore. It often self sows around the garden, and in some sites self-establishes through wind blown spores. Reasonably frost-tolerant, and does best in full sun, especially on poorly drained clay soils. Drought tolerant.