The Ferns of Christchurch Botanic Gardens - Summer 09

Here we are with the first article of 2009 and where better to start than right here in Christchurch and its famous botanic gardens. Being the southern hemisphere, January is mid-summer and I've been waiting for some time to come and see how the tree ferns planted outside will look. Suffice to say, I was not disappointed!

But first we will begin our ferny expedition at the fern house. It has been closed for many weeks now for a re-vamp and I've been looking forward to getting in there and seeing what they've been up to. Here's a view from the outside and the mature fern plantings here include Blechnum discolor, Pteris cretica and Polystichum braunii.

A closer look at the Polystichum braunii and the new croziers contrast very well with the established fronds. This fern is a stocky evergreen species which appears very tolerant of neglect.

Stood in the doorway to the fern house, all looks the same as before. The huge Marattia salacina flicks its 3 metre fronds out in all directions while the Cyathea dealbata round the back can just about be seen soaking up the sun from the overhead glass panel.