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crown fern nz

The crown fern NZ (Blechnum discolor) is a beloved native fern found throughout New Zealand’s lush forests and garden landscapes. Known for its bold, arching fronds and distinctive form, the crown fern brings structure, texture, and vibrant green hues to shaded areas. Whether you’re reviving a shady corner, adding native flair to your landscape design, or creating a lush underplanting beneath trees, crown ferns are an essential choice for New Zealand gardens.

An Asplenium bulbiferum (Hen and Chicken Fern) growing in a shaded postion and displaying lush, green fronds.

Asplenium bulbiferum (Hen And Chicken Fern)

5 from 3 customers

Asplenium bulbiferum, commonly known as the Hen and Chicken Fern or Pikopiko Fern, is a popular NZ native prized for its lush, arching fronds and ability to produce baby ferns (plantlets) along the leaf edges. Ideal for shaded gardens, underplanting, or pots, it thrives in moist, well-drained soil with protection from direct sun and wind.

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type: Ferns
Height: 30 cm
Spread: 30 cm
Tolerances: Shade
Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Living areas, Parks, Paths & Steps, Ponds, Pool areas, Specimen
Garden styles: Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Native, Tropical
Fagus sylvatica (European Beech) specimen tree with emerging green foliage.

Fagus sylvatica

Fagus sylvatica, commonly known as the Common Beech or European Beech, is a large, deciduous tree that grows with a broad, spreading crown. The leaves emerge yellow-green in spring, age to become glossy and dark green, then turn a russet-brown colour in autumn as they die off.

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Trees
Height: 30.00 m
Spread: 15.00 m
Flowering time: Summer
Tolerances: Extended dry periods, Hardy
Garden uses: Hedging, Parks, Specimen
Garden styles: Alpine, Formal, Japanese
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Blechnum discolor (Crown Ferns) in a native garden.
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Blechnum discolor (Crown Fern) is a hardy NZ native fern admired for its upright fronds, tidy crown forming habit, and lush evergreen presence. It...

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Asplenium nidus avis (Birds Nest Fern)

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Doodia aspera (Prickly Rasp Fern)

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Adiantum hispidulum (Rough Maidenhair Fern) with slender, green fronds.
Adiantum hispidulum (Rough Maidenhair Fern)

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Adiantum cunninghamii ferns with short fronds bearing small, green leaves.
Adiantum cunninghamii (New Zealand Maidenhair Fern)

Adiantum cunninghamii is a graceful NZ native maidenhair fern prized for its finely divided fronds and soft, airy appearance. With delicate leaflets...

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Blechnum fraseri fern with lush, green fronds.
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Davallia solida (Rabbit Foot Fern) plant with lush, green fronds.
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Pteris cretica (Cretan Brake Fern)

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Athyrium okanum green foliage.
Athyrium Okanum' (Japanese Painted Fern Plant)

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Adiantum aleuticum ferns growing as a cluster and featuring lush,green foliage.
Adiantum aleuticum (Five-Finger Fern)

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Cyathea cooperi (Australian Tree Fern)

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Athyrium niponicum (Painted Fern)

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Davallia mariesii fern with elegant, green fronds.
Davallia mariesii (Squirrels Foot Fern)

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Davallia fejeensis fern.
Davallia fejeensis  (Rabbits Foot Fern)

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Adiantum formosum fern in a shade garden and featuring slender, green fronds.
Adiantum formosum (Giant Maidenhair Fern)

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Asplenium bulbiferum (Hen And Chicken Fern)

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Asplenium, Blechnum, and Disphyma, or related Categories - Ground Fern, Palm Trees, and Evergreen Shrubs.

Search crown fern nz

Why Choose Crown Fern NZ for Your Garden?

Crown ferns are prized for their hardy, easy-care nature and striking appearance. Their bright green fronds radiate outward from a central point, creating a “crown” shape that stands out in bush settings and urban gardens alike. As a tough groundcover, crown fern NZ helps suppress weeds, stabilise soils on slopes, and provide valuable shelter for native wildlife. Being evergreen, they ensure year-round interest, even when other garden plants are dormant.

Growing Conditions for Crown Ferns

Crown ferns thrive in well-drained, humus-rich soils with consistent moisture. They prefer dappled shade or filtered light, much like their natural bush habitat. While crown ferns tolerate cold and light frosts, they appreciate some shelter from harsh winds and intense afternoon sun, especially in exposed gardens. Regular mulching with leaf litter or fine bark helps conserve moisture and mimics the conditions of New Zealand forests.

Designing with Crown Fern and Other New Zealand Ferns

Crown fern NZ combines well with a range of other New Zealand natives, making it a perfect companion for woodland-style plantings. For diverse texture and form, consider pairing crown fern with Asplenium nidus avis (Birds Nest Fern) for glossy, wavy leaves or the soft and delicate Adiantum hispidulum (Rough Maidenhair Fern). For bold contrast, incorporate Doodia australis (Rasp Fern) or the robust Doodia aspera (Prickly Rasp Fern). For even finer, lacy foliage, Adiantum cunninghamii (New Zealand Maidenhair Fern) makes an excellent addition. These companions celebrate New Zealand’s unique fern diversity in your own garden.

How to Care for Your Crown Fern NZ

Crown ferns are low maintenance once established. Water during dry spells, especially in their first growing season. Remove spent fronds to tidy their appearance and promote new growth. Avoid compacted soils and heavy foot traffic around the crown, as the fibrous roots prefer loose, organic soil. If your site is exposed or dry, consider underplanting with other shade-loving ferns to provide microclimate protection.

Crown Fern NZ for Restoration and Natural Landscapes

Crown fern NZ is a go-to choice for ecological restoration, shelterbelts, and riparian plantings. Its dense root system stabilises stream banks and forest edges, while the thick frond canopy provides shelter for skinks, invertebrates, and birds. As a vital part of native bush understorey, crown ferns help recreate the authentic look and function of New Zealand’s forests in both public and private spaces.

If you are passionate about native gardens, explore more unique New Zealand ferns such as Asplenium nidus avis (Birds Nest Fern), Doodia australis (Rasp Fern), and Adiantum cunninghamii (New Zealand Maidenhair Fern) to create your own fern haven. Bring the spirit of the bush home with the versatile, enduring crown fern NZ.


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