Botanical name:

Parablechnum procerum

Common name(s):

Small kiokio

About:

P. procerum is a small fern characterised by its creeping stem, also known as a rhizome, which allows it to spread effectively in its natural habitat. The sterile fronds feature an attractive display of bronze-green leaflets that are of almost uniform size, contributing to the plant's overall aesthetic appeal. Typically, the sterile fronds grow prostrate on the ground, providing a lush carpet-like appearance, while the fertile fronds stand upright, creating a striking contrast in form and structure.

Natural habitat:

Coastal to subalpine (montane to subalpine in northern part of range). Common in mixed forest, subalpine scrub and tussock grassland.

Growing environment:

Sun, Shade, Salt, Wetland, Wind & Coastal tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s North, South, Stewart, Chatham and subantarctic Islands from about Mangamuka Forest south. Becoming more common heading south and reaching sea level in the more southerly part of its range.

Height: 30-50cm

Flowering: N/A Spore producing

Fruiting: N/A

Uses:

Riparian plantings & Forests.

How to grow:

Easily grown from fresh spores and whole plants. transplants well and flourishes in most conditions but does best in a shaded site, planted in a fertile, permanently moist soil. Dislikes drought.