Botanical name:

Gleichenia dicarpa

Common name(s):

Tangle fern, swamp umbrella fern

About:

A common plant, frequently observed thriving and growing in diverse environments such as under cascading waterfalls, in nutrient-rich peatlands, nestled beneath rocky cliffs, and within the expansive reach of tall, open forest areas. This resilient species has the remarkable ability to flourish even in nutrient-poor conditions, as it prefers environments with high humidity levels, coupled with ample sunshine and consistent moisture. Its intricate and tangled root systems work effectively to collect detritus, contributing significantly to the prevention of soil erosion in its habitat. Additionally, it often serves as a pioneer species, playing a vital role in stabilising and rejuvenating disturbed ground in various ecological settings.

Natural habitat:

Coastal to subalpine (up to 900m) in poorly draining soils, clay pans and pakihi and peat bogs. In lowland peat bogs it often forms dense, almost impenetrable masses hence the common name “tangle fern”.

Growing environment:

Sun, Shade, Wetland & Coastal tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand. North, South, Stewart and Chathams Islands. Also Australia, New Caledonia, Philippines, Borneo and Malaysia.

Height: 2m

Flowering: N/A Spore producing

Fruiting: N/A

Uses:

Riparian plantings, Forests & Wetland Pioneer Plantings.

How to grow:

Fickle. Can be readily propagated from spores, and grows as long as it is not allowed to dry out and is not otherwise disturbed. It prefers acidic soil and sunny aspect. Transplants have sometimes been successfully grown in shaded conditions with plants planted in an acid, poorly drained soil. But results vary and plants tend to resent any root disturbance.