Prince of Wales Fern (Leptopteris superba)
Kingdom: Plantae
Division: Pteridophyta
Class: Pteridopsida
Order: Osmundales
Family: Osmundaceae
Genus: Leptopteris
Species: Leptopteris superba
Common name: Prince of Wales Feather, Crepe fern, Heruheru
Leptopteris superba is a primitive ferns characterised by large fronds (25-100cm x 8-25cm) forming a spreading crown. It has large sporangia that are scattered on the underside of the fronds. It has a stout rhizome, sometimes giving rise to a short trunk. The elliptical fronds are characterised by rich shading and textures. It is an endemic species found in cool wet lowland to montane forests throughout the country.
Previous page: Hymenophyllum sanguinolentum ( Mauku, Piripiri)
Next page: Lace fern (Leptolepia novae-zealandiae)