Australian tree fern

Australian tree fern can grow as high as 12 metres displacing other vegetation.

Description

• Trunk is slender and brown patterned with oval scars from old fronds.

• Lacy, arching fronds are between 3-4 metres long.

• Spores are dispersed by wind.

• Habitats include forest and riparian margins, gullies, light gaps, roadsides, and disturbed sites.

What you need to know

Australian tree fern is a highly efficient competitor that can displace vegetation and alter nutrient cycling.

Management approach

Australian tree fern is declared an unwanted organism by the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) because it is capable of causing harm to the natural environment, physical resources or human health in Aotearoa/New Zealand.

These species pose a high risk to our environment, economy, recreation, and cultural values.

Rules

Any species declared a pest, including unwanted organisms, cannot be sold or be in a place where plants are being sold. Pest plants cannot be propagated, bred, or multiplied, communicated, released, or cause to be released, or otherwise spread.

Control

Do not attempt to undertake control of Australian tree fern yourself. Report any sightings to us.