Botanical name:

Leptopteris superba

Common name(s):

Prince of Wales feather, crepe fern, heruheru

About:

This is perhaps our most beautiful fern, which can be found thriving in the lush, wet forests of the lower North Island as well as along the west coast of the South Island. It develops a short trunk that can reach heights of up to 1 m, with fronds ranging from 25 cm to a striking 1 m long. These fronds are elegantly tapered at both ends and exhibit a rich deep and translucent green hue. So finely divided are the fronds that they possess the delicate appearance and soft texture of a gentle plume. However, this fern proves to be quite a difficult one to cultivate, as it requires the specific conditions provided by a well-maintained fernery, including ample shade, a cool environment, and high levels of humidity.

Natural habitat:

Widespread in dense forest though it is mainly found in montane forest in the northern part of its range. It is especially luxuriant in areas of high rainfall reaching its greatest densities on the West Coast of the South Island

Growing environment:

Shade & Wetland tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s North, South and Stewart Islands from Waipoua Forest south but scarce north of Auckland.

Height: 60cm

Flowering: 

N/A Spore producing.

Fruiting: N/A

Uses:

Riparian plantings & Forests

How to grow:

Rather difficult. Best results are obtained where specimens are planted in a shaded, cool, humid site in deep humus enriched soil. Plants must never be allowed to dry out. By and large this species is only suitable for specialist cultivation and it is probably best to admire it in the wild rather than to try and grow it.