Hen and Chickens Fern (Asplenium gracillimum)
Last Modified: 27-2-2022 22:01
© Christopher Cookson License this image
Hen and Chickens Fern (Asplenium gracillimum) is a ground fern found throughout New Zealand and parts of Australia. In Marlborough, A. gracillimum is common in coastal areas and can be found up to about 900 metres altitude, where there is sufficient humidity. The species can be quite variable, with different forms of secondary pinnae (the small 'leaflets' that make up part of a larger larger pinna). Fronds can be from about 10cm up to a metre in length. The similar A. bulbiferum is also found in Marlborough, but rarely outside the Marlborough Sounds, however the closely related A. hookeranium is also widespread in Marlborough, and can be confused, however generally has smaller fronds.
This example was observed at the Taylor Dam.
Image Date: 3/1/2021
Photographer: Christopher Cookson
Location: Latitude: -41.574959 Longitude: 173.934341