Botanical name:

Paesia scaberula

Common name(s):

Lace fern, ring fern, scented fern, pig fern

About:

This fern is frequently regarded as a weedy species, commonly found across New Zealand in open areas and disturbed sites, where it can quickly spread. The fronds range in colour from yellowish-green and can grow from 20 cm to 1.15 m in length, emerging from a creeping rhizome. They possess a triangular shape with a lacy appearance and emit a strong scent when warmed by sunlight. This hardy and vigorous fern is resilient in dry conditions and can thrive in both sunny and lightly shaded environments. Trimming it back in winter can facilitate new growth in spring, helping to maintain a neat appearance.

Natural habitat:

Coastal to montane. An often common fern of open or disturbed ground, rough pasture, grassland or reverting farmland - where it often is considered a serious pest.

Growing environment:

Frost, Sun, Shade, Wind, Coastal & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s Three Kings, North, South, Stewart and Chatham Islands.

Height: 1.15m

Flowering: N/A Spore producing.

Fruiting: N/A

Uses:

Riparian plantings & Pioneer Plantings

How to grow:

A weedy fern that often self establishes in gardens. Prefers a sunny, open situation and is tolerant of a range of soil types.