This variable fern has an ascending or creeping rhizome and forms an upright spreading habit. It has large divided arching fronds with lanced-shaped leaflets with a pink hue becoming dark green and the fertile fronds are smaller with narrow leaflets.     

Hardiness zones 8 to 11 

Blechnum novae-zelandiae is naturally found throughout New Zealand growing from coastal lowlands to sub-alpine forests appearing on gully embankments or around swamps. 

It prefers a semi-shaded to sunny open to protected position and grows in most well drained moderately fertile wet to dry soils. It is light frost and wind tolerant but drought tender. 

Kiokio is grown for its large fronds and spreading habit. It is planted in parks and gardens as an understorey specimen or used on shaded embankments or in damp gully settings. It is suitable for coastal and mountain regions establishing in 2 to 3 years. It is also planted in patio pots and used around water features. ID 2874

Blechnum (BLEK-num) novae-zelandiae (no-va-ea zel-land-ea)

Blechnaceae (blek-NAY-see-ee)