Polypodiaceae

The ferns in this family have long creeping rhizomes, and are often found growing on rocks or trees. The sori are unprotected ie. they lack indusia.

Anarthropteris lanceolata

The fronds of this species are undivided, and have a narrow wing on the stipe (stalk) - look closely at the base of the leaves.

The sori are quite conspicuous when you look at the underneath side, but you can also see them bulging on the topside of the leaf as well.

This species is epiphytic, and is found throughout the country in coastal and lowland bush.

It is also endemic, meaning that it is found only in this country.

Microsorum pustulatum

This one was scrambling over the ground as well as climbing up a tree.

The fronds are quite variable in shape, with juvenile fronds being undivided.

It is common throughout the country, often in quite open drier areas.

Microsorum scandens

This Microsorum also has variable fronds. The juvenile ones are long and narrow.

The specimens I have found have tended to be in damper parts of the bush, and growing on old punga stumps.

Pyrrosia eleagnifolia

This species also has variable fronds. The fronds are thick and leathery.

It is a very tough and adaptable fern. It can be found in coastal areas on rocks or tree branches to montane areas.

This image shows the unprotected sori - a feature of this family.

Platycerium sp.

"Staghorn Fern"

Not a native!

It is epiphytic.
It originates in temperate and tropical areas, but in NZ it can be found cultivated in gardens - usually hanging from a tree.

Fertile fronds bear spores on their undersurface, are dichotomous or antler shaped and jut out or hang from the rhizome.

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