Angiopteris evecta – The King Fern
With a common name of King fern, Angiopteris evecta deserves its title. Found in the rainforest areas of Northern New South Wales, so this is a fern that likes a little warmth as well as moisture.
The title of King Fern comes from the sheer size of the fronds as well as the girth of the trunk.
Individual fronds can reach from 5 to 7m in length, and over time the trunk can get to 1m in width. Not many specimens this large are found in cultivation, however as the fern grows not only in Australia but also through the warmer tropical areas of further north including New Guinea, the evidence exists to suggest that this really is the largest fern of all.
Landscaping uses.
This is a magnificent specimen in a tropical to subtropical garden. As Angiopteris evecta has a slow growth rate, it can also be grown in a container for a number of years.
Care
This is a plant that requires a warm shady position with good moisture.
A humus rich moist soil essential, along with good drainage. A position in dappled shade with protection from frosts is best.
Ongoing maintenance includes mulching to maintain a humus rich moist soil, and additional water during any long dry spells.
Removal of old dead fronds is the only other real maintenance required.
Summary
- Botanical Name – Angiopteris evecta
- Common Names – King Fern
- Position – Warm shaded position.
- Soil Humus rich and moist.
- Height – To 3m over time.
- Spread – To 16m on a mature specimen
- Climate – Larger in warmer climates than cooler areas.
- Growth Rate – Slow.
Propagation
From spores in warmer climates where it will spread.