Botanical name:

Doodia milnei

Common name(s):

About:

Endemic to the Kermadec Islands, this particular fern is very similar to D. australis but features longer and softer leaflets, while its young fronds notably lack the distinctive red coloration. Additionally, it tends to prefer drier conditions for optimal growth and is often well-suited for cultivation in containers, making it a versatile choice for gardeners looking to enhance their plant collections.

Natural habitat:

Coastal, usually associated with Kermadec pohutukawa (Metrosideros kermadecensis) dominated forest where it grows amongst rocks, on cliff faces and within leaf litter. It also has been recorded from Macauley Island (southern Kermadec Islands group) where it grows under sparse Kermadec ngaio (Myoporum rapense subsp. kermadecense).

Growing environment:

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

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s Kermadec Islands, Raoul and Macauley Island.

Height: 60cm

Flowering: N/A Spore producing.

Fruiting: N/A

Uses:

Riparian plantings, Forests, Ground cover, Pioneer Plantings & Container friendly

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.