kōwaowao
about.
Zealandia pustulata subsp. pustulata | hound’s tongue, kōwaowao, pāraharaha
A common New Zealand epiphytic fern that climbs tree trunks or trails along fallen logs, rocks, and the forest floor, also working well as a low groundcover in moist, shaded sites. Its broad, leathery, glossy bright green fronds with conspicuous veins give a distinctly lush, tropical character, while thick, fleshy rhizomes with large, appressed scales anchor it securely to bark and substrate. Young fronds emerge a very pale, translucent green before slowly darkening as they mature. Slow spreading and adaptable, it can grow terrestrially or ascend vertical surfaces, often seen climbing up nīkau trunks in damp forest conditions.
typical habitat.
A common fern of coastal to montane area, growing either on the ground, over rocks or on tree trunks and branches
drainage.
moist
sun.
full shade
partial shade
mature specifications.
height | 30cm
width | 30cm
did you know?
This fern is remarkably versatile and can be grown in hanging baskets, large pots, or trained to spill over rocks and logs, while also establishing easily on the branches of suitable trees. Once established, it requires very little maintenance and is notably drought tolerant for an epiphytic fern. It is also largely disease and pest free, making it a reliable and resilient specimen for the average garden despite its lush, tropical appearance.