kiokio

Parablechnum novae-zelandiae | kiokio, horokio, palm leaf fern

 

One of the most widespread and recognisable ferns, valued in revegetation and ornamental plantings alike. It forms large, arching, drooping fronds that create a strong presence on banks, underplanting, and overhanging edges. New growth often emerges pink to red, especially in more open sites, before maturing to deep green. Very hardy, it will tolerate difficult sites provided there is adequate moisture, and occurs naturally from coastal to montane environments. Most conspicuous in higher rainfall areas, it commonly establishes along roadsides, ravines, riverbanks, forest gullies, and damp scrub. A reliable coloniser with distinctive frond structure, it can also function as a groundcover in suitable conditions, making it well suited to naturalistic and resilient planting schemes.

cliff faces

roadsides

river banks

moist

full shade

partial shade

height | 1.5m

width | 1.2m

The fronds were traditionally used for wrapping food during hāngī, helping protect and steam food during cooking.