Botanical name:

Leptopteris hymenophylloides

Common name(s):

Crepe fern, heruheru

About:

A very beautiful and striking fern that can be found throughout the diverse landscapes of New Zealand, thriving particularly in moist areas such as the edges of stream banks. It typically grows to an impressive height of around 60 cm tall, often featuring a short trunk that supports its lush appearance. The fronds of this fern can reach up to 1 m long, presenting a stunning display. They are characterised by a dark green hue that is both vibrant and translucent, with a narrowly triangular shape that is extremely finely dissected. This fern requires a consistently moist, shady, and sheltered spot to flourish, making it best suited for cultivation in a dedicated fernery.

Natural habitat:

Damp coastal to montane forests. Confined predominantly to deeply shaded, forested sites, where it is often found on rock piles, along streams and river banks (in places where the forest overhangs the waterways) or around seepages and springs. Often uncommon, though sometimes locally abundant.

Growing environment:

Shade & Wetland tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

Throughout New Zealand

Height: 60cm

Flowering: 

N/A Spore producing.

Fruiting: N/A

Uses:

Riparian plantings & Forests

How to grow:

Easily grown although often slow to establish. Does best in a shaded, damp site. Tolerant of wide range of soil types but will not withstand drought. Once established can sometimes become invasive.