Austral Bracken (Pteridium esculentum)

Overview

Austral Bracken (Pteridium esculentum) is a vigorous, colony-forming fern native to Australia and New Zealand. Its rhizomes were traditionally used as food by Maori.

Taxonomy

Description

Fronds are 1–2 m tall, tripinnate, with a triangular outline. The rhizome is long-creeping, deep, forming extensive colonies. Pinnae are linear, with rolled margins.

Habitat and Cultivation

Found in open forests, grasslands, and disturbed sites. Aggressive spreader; can be invasive. In gardens, use with caution, provide barriers. Tolerates a wide range of conditions.