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NZ fern, Blechnum sp

Blechnum sp.

Description:

Approx 30cm high fern with only 4 visible sterile fronds and a very striking orange fruiting frond in the center of the crown. Leaves are alternating on the stem with a very distinctive raised pattern of veins. Fertile frond is taller than the sterile fronds and splits about 1/3 from the top into two. Fertile frond is feather-like with orange alternating 'leaves' and yellowish spores on the underside.

Habitat:

Found in open bush floor, alongside a formed walking track. Leaf litter but not particularly damp. Only specimen obviously present and definitely only one fruiting

Notes:

I will do further research on this fern but any assistance welcomed. Blechnum seems the most likely species, although not many are found in temperate zones. The separate fertile frond and similar leaf patterns to other Blechnum species are the indications I have used. The closest I have currently found on line was Blechnum Kiwakiwa but the leaves on this fern are less rounded and have more distinctive veining.

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remkinloch
Spotted by
remkinloch

Wellington, New Zealand

Spotted on Oct 10, 2018
Submitted on Oct 14, 2018

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