Botanical name:

Loxsoma cunninghamii

Common name(s):

About:

This particular fern was once a common sight in lowland areas stretching from Kaitaia to Coromandel, but it is becoming increasingly less prevalent in the northern regions as its natural habitat comes under threat from various land development activities. It is characterised as a creeping fern, which boasts feathery fronds that can reach lengths of 1 meter or more. The fronds are typically light green to blue-green on the upper side and exhibit a paler green or whitish coloration on the underside. This species does not transplant well, making it of very limited availability for those interested in cultivation. It requires a shady spot with moist soil and needs protection from frost. Given its specific needs, it is probably best suited for growth in a dedicated fernery.

Natural habitat:

Poor clay soils with light shade, most often at the edge of kauri forest.

Growing environment:

Clay, Shade, Wind & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s upper North Island  though becoming increasingly rare.

Height: 60cm

Flowering: 

N/A Spore producing.

Fruiting: N/A

Uses:

Forests & Wetland’s

How to grow:

Difficult and should never be removed from the wild. Can be grown from spore. It grows best in a poor soil and must have a well-drained situation.