Botanical name:

Tmesipteris elongata

Common name(s):

Fork fern

About

T. elongata is an uncommon fern ally that typically grows as an epiphyte on the well-known tree fern Dicksonia antarctica. This fascinating plant is very distinctive, characterised by its elegantly curved leaves that bear sporangia arranged in clusters at the base. Additionally, T. elongata has been reported to be a “primitive plant with a longer fossil history than that of a typical fern,” highlighting its importance in understanding plant evolution.

Natural habitat:

Coastal to montane but more frequently in lowland areas. Mostly epiphytic on a range of tree ferns (especially Dicksonia), trees and also emerging from the base of tank lilies (Astelia and Collospermum spp.). Less frequently found growing on cliff faces, amongst cracks and crevices in boulders and rock falls, or amongst mosses on the ground.

Growing environment:

Shade, Wind, Coastal & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s North, South, Stewart and Chatham Islands, although more common in the North Island. Found also in Australia.

Height:

Flowering: N/A Spore producing.

Fruiting: N/A

Uses:

Forests

How to grow:

Difficult due to its epiphytic nature & should not be removed from the wild