- Botanical name: Blechnum fluviatile
- Common name: Kiwikiwi, star fern
- Family: Blechnaceae
- Plant Type: Perennial, Evergreen
Green
- Key features:
- Dramatic foliage
- Prefers rich soil
The kiwikiwi or star fern, Blechnum fluviatile, is an evergreen fern native to New Zealand and Tasmania, where it can be found growing the the damp, moist areas near water.
This species has narrow, deep green fronds and is the perfect partner for plants that enjoy similar growing conditions, like candelabra primulas. It’s not fully hardy, so will require winter protection in colder areas.
For best results, grow Blechnum fluviatile in moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil in partial to full shade. Provide with shelter from cold, drying winds. Mulch around clumps each year with a generous amount of home-made compost or leaf mould.
How to grow Blechnum fluviatile
-
Plant size
50cm height
100cm spread
-
Aspect
North facing, east facing
-
Position in border
Front
- Sun exposure: Dappled shade, full shade, partial shade
- Shade type: Damp
- Hardiness: Frost hardy
- Soil type: Acidic / boggy / clay / heavy / moist
Plant calendar
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Plant |
J
Do not Plant in January |
F
Do not Plant in February |
M
Do not Plant in March |
A
Do Plant in April |
M
Do Plant in May |
J
Do Plant in June |
J
Do not Plant in July |
A
Do not Plant in August |
S
Do not Plant in September |
O
Do not Plant in October |
N
Do not Plant in November |
D
Do not Plant in December |
Blechnum fluviatile and wildlife
Blechnum fluviatile has no particular known value to wildlife in the UK.
Is Blechnum fluviatile poisonous?
Blechnum fluviatile has no toxic effects reported.
No reported toxicity to Birds
No reported toxicity to Cats
No reported toxicity to Dogs
No reported toxicity to Horses
No reported toxicity to Livestock
No reported toxicity to People
