Botanical name:

Lastreopsis hispida

Common name(s):

Hairy fern

About:

This is a larger species of fern, with its fronds measuring between 30 cm and 1 m long, and it features a creeping rhizome that allows it to spread effectively. It is commonly found in the coastal and lowland forests of the North Island as well as in various coastal areas of the South Island. The dark green fronds are very finely divided, creating an intricate appearance, and the species is easily distinguished by the dark bristles that cover the frond stalks, which has contributed to its common name of hairy fern. This plant requires shade to thrive and can grow well in either quite damp soils or in drier, well-drained ones, which makes it adaptable to different environments.

Natural habitat:

Coastal to montane. Usually in forest, especially lowland, riparian forest.

Growing environment:

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

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s North, South, Stewart and Chatham Islands. Also Australia

Height: 1m

Flowering: N/A Spore producing.

Fruiting: N/A

Uses:

Riparian plantings & Forests

How to grow:

Easily grown provided plants are planted in a permanently moist, shaded, well drained, humus enriched soil