Blechnum novae-zelandiae

RHS Plant Profile
palm-leaf fern
palm-leaf fern John Fielding

Other common names

kiokio

Ferns

An evergreen fern with short creeping rhizomes bearing large bright green, wavy leaflets on pendulous sterile fronds. Young growth is often orange to deep red. The erect, fertile fronds have leaflets greatly reduced in width which curl and turn black as the spores ripen

Position

Full shade, Partial shade

Soil Types

Loam, Clay, Sand, Chalk

Max Height

1-1.5 metres

Max Spread

1-1.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
5–10 years
Max Spread
1-1.5 metres
Max Height
1-1.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Loam Clay Sand Chalk
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Well–drained
pH
Neutral or Acid or Alkaline

Position

Full shade Partial shade
Aspect
West–facing or East–facing or North–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H4

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Blechnaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen, Semi evergreen
Habit
Clump forming
Genus
Blechnum are mostly evergreen ferns with erect or creeping rhizomes and simply pinnate, leathery fronds, the fertile ones usually erect, the sterile often spreading
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
New Zealand, Chatham Is., Kermadec Is.

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in moist but free draining soil in lightly shaded sites or in full sun if given plenty of moisture. Tolerant of dry shade but water regularly in their first season and mulch well. For more information see how to grow ferns for further advice

Propagation

Propagate by division or spores

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Low Maintenance
  • Underplanting of roses and shrubs
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

Generally not necessary but can remove damaged or old fronds in spring if required.

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free