Back to Ground Ferns
Makaka Fern (Adiantum aethiopicum)
A very adaptable and cold hardy little fern. Given a position to its liking, with dappled light and well-drained soil, it will soon form a large clump with its creeping rhizome. Particularly suitable for pots and hanging baskets. It tolerates a range of soils, but does best in a lighter soil.
Indoor or out.
Hardy. Frond length = 20-30cm.
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Hounds Tongue (Zealandia pust subsp pustulata)
Superb ground-cover fern. Has striking smooth green fronds giving gardens a tropical appearance. Its creeping rhizome will grow over anything. Very adaptable and can handle dry shade once established.
Hardy.
Frond length = 10-60cm.
Prickly Shield Fern (Polystichum vestitum)
This very hardy and adaptable ground fern is a feature in many parts of NZ. Forms a small trunk and is noted for its strong flush of new fronds in the spring. Will grown from shade to full sun. Likes plenty of humus added to soil.
Hardy.
Front length = 50-120cm.
Crown Fern (Lomaria discolor)
Easily grown species. This fern's common name gives you some clue to its habit. It develops a "crown-like" formation of fronds on top of a small truck (caudex). Contrasting new and old fronds give it an interesting appearance. Crown fern is often seen in our bush in large colonies. Excellent for mass-plantings. Once established it will tolerate quite dry situations. Suits filtered light with good drainage.
Hardy.
Frond length = 50-100cm.
Small Kiokio (Parablechnum procerum)
A good ground-cover fern, slowly spreading by rhizome to form a good patch over time. Often distinguished by its bronze-orange coloured fronds. Very adaptable to a wide range of situations from out in the open to a shady southern bank. Add plenty of organic matter to the soil. Does best under medium shade.
Hardy.
Frond length = 40-60cm.