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Microsorum pustulatum (Kangaroo Fern)

Hounds Tongue, Kowaowao, Pāraharaha

Microsorum pustulatum (Kangaroo Fern) is an attractive evergreen fern valued for its leathery green fronds and lush, spreading growth habit. The distinctive foliage creates excellent texture and provides year round interest in sheltered New Zealand gardens. Microsorum pustulatum (Kangaroo Fern) is especially useful beneath trees, along shaded banks, in woodland gardens, and around rocks or logs where its natural character can be appreciated. It can also be grown in containers in protected positions. This hardy fern is an excellent choice for creating a leafy, low maintenance ground layer in areas with filtered light and reliable moisture.

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Suited to regions:Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type:Ferns
Height:40 cm
Spread:40 cm
Flowering time:
Tolerances:Coastal, Shade
Garden uses:Borders, Containers, Paths & Steps, Ponds
Garden styles:Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Modern, Native
Easy to grow?Yes
Maintenance requirementsLow
Growth rateMedium
Also known asHounds Tongue, Kowaowao, Pāraharaha
Sku15611

How to grow Microsorum pustulatum (Kangaroo Fern) in NZ

Microsorum pustulatum (Kangaroo Fern) grows best in partial shade or filtered light with fertile, free draining soil that retains consistent moisture. It is well suited to sheltered positions beneath trees or alongside larger shrubs where protection from harsh afternoon sun is provided. Prepare the soil with organic matter before planting and water regularly while the fern establishes. Mulching around the plants helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and maintain a cool root zone. Once established, Microsorum pustulatum (Kangaroo Fern) is reasonably hardy, although growth is generally strongest where the soil does not become excessively dry during summer.

Microsorum pustulatum (Kangaroo Fern) care tips

Microsorum pustulatum (Kangaroo Fern) requires relatively little maintenance once established in a suitable position. Water during prolonged dry periods and maintain a layer of organic mulch around the root zone to conserve moisture. Apply a light dressing of general garden fertiliser or organic fertiliser during spring to encourage healthy new growth. Older or damaged fronds can be removed near their base to keep the plant looking tidy and allow fresh foliage to develop. Avoid cultivating deeply around established plants because the spreading rhizomes are close to the soil surface. Protection from hot, drying winds will also help maintain attractive foliage.

Microsorum pustulatum (Kangaroo Fern) size, spacing, and growth rate

Microsorum pustulatum (Kangaroo Fern) forms a spreading clump of foliage and gradually expands through creeping rhizomes. Plants generally reach around 30 to 60 cm tall, with the spread increasing over time where growing conditions are favourable. Space plants approximately 50 to 70 cm apart when establishing a groundcover so they have room to develop while gradually filling the gaps between them. Growth is moderate in moist, sheltered conditions and may be slower in cooler or drier sites. Its spreading habit makes it particularly useful for covering shaded ground beneath trees and through naturalistic garden plantings.

Landscaping uses for Microsorum pustulatum (Kangaroo Fern)

Microsorum pustulatum (Kangaroo Fern) is an excellent landscaping fern for adding lush foliage and natural texture to shaded New Zealand gardens. Use it beneath established trees, along shaded banks, beside pathways, around rocks, or through woodland style plantings. Its spreading rhizomes make it useful as a groundcover where conditions are moist and sheltered. Microsorum pustulatum (Kangaroo Fern) also works well in containers and can soften the edges of retaining walls or other hard landscaping. The evergreen foliage combines particularly well with larger shrubs and other shade tolerant plants to create layered, natural looking garden displays.

Why buy Microsorum pustulatum (Kangaroo Fern) from The Plant Company?

The Plant Company is NZ's most trusted plant nursery, supplying quality plants for gardens and landscaping projects throughout New Zealand. Our Microsorum pustulatum (Kangaroo Fern) plants are carefully grown and selected for health, vigour, and strong establishment. Strict quality standards and careful packing help ensure plants arrive in excellent condition and ready to grow. When you buy from The Plant Company, you can order online with confidence and benefit from expert growing advice, fast delivery, and free shipping on qualifying orders over $150.

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