Botanical name:

Hymenophyllum sanguinolentum

Common name(s):

Fimly fern, piripiri

About:

H. sanguinolentum is a fascinating species of fern that can be found growing both terrestrially and as an epiphyte, often forming dense and lush patches in its natural habitat. This unique plant is readily distinguished by its striking black zig-zagged rachis, which serves as the main stem, and is further characterised by its distinctive crested indusial flaps that add to its overall visual appeal.

Natural habitat:

A very common and widespread species of closed or open forest and shrub-land. Also a common species of shaded canyon walls, cliff faces, rock tors, boulder-field and talus slopes. Hymenophyllum sanguinolentum is extremely drought resistant and as such one of the few filmy ferns to grow within drought-prone habitats.

Growing environment:

Drought, Shade & Coastal tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s Three Kings, North, South, Stewart Islands. Also Cook Islands (Rarotonga). Previously regarded as endemic to New Zealand.

Flowering: N/A Spore producing

Fruiting: N/A

Uses:

Riparian plantings, Forests & Drought prone areas.

How to grow:

Difficult! The lifecycle of the fern could not occur without specific environmental requirements.