Pteris tremula, Br
Ferns Species:
Family:
Common Name:
Status:
Size:
Pteris tremula
Pteridaceae
Shaking Brake
Non Threatened
Fronds 45cm - 150cm long
Habitat:
Common in the northern forests, scrub clearings and gardens. Native to New Zealand, Australia and Fiji.
Description:
A fast growing tufted ground fern. Stems are red-brown and fronds are divided into long narrow leaflets. The common name of this fern refers to the way its fronds tend to tremble in a breeze. In summer its aroma can be overpowering, and is often called the "stinking fern" because of this, although many people also like the scent.
Distribution:
Found on North Island and in the northern part of South Island up to a height of 1000m. See distribution map (bottom right).
Bibliography:
Andrew Crowe, Which Native Fern: a simple guide to the identification of New Zealand Native Ferns (Penguin Books (NZ) Ltd 1994) p49