sweet fern
Pteris macilenta | sweet fern
A unique, hardy fern that forms lush clusters of fronds from its erect, slender rhizome. It's perfect if you're looking for a distinctive groundcover or want to create a natural feel in drier, shaded garden nooks. This fern thrives in the dry, less vegetated areas of forests and naturally occurs in coastal and lowland regions, making it an excellent choice for those challenging, drier spots where other ferns might struggle.
typical habitat.
coastal scrub
coastal forest
lowland forest
montane forest
scrubland
drainage.
well drained
free draining
moist
sun.
partial shade
mature specifications.
height | 50cm
width | 1m
did you know?
Past research shows that most fern families have widespread symbiotic fungal infections in their roots. A 1976 study by Karen M. Cooper specifically on New Zealand's Pteris macilenta found that all tested samples had mycorrhizal infections, a key symbiotic relationship that improves nutrient uptake and overall plant health. The study identified at least seven types of endogonaceous fungi, often in mixed infections, and even some ectotrophic mycorrhizas, indicating a diverse and beneficial fungal community within the fern's root system.