rereti

blechnum chambersii (Lance fern, nini)

Previously: Blechnum lanceolatum,Lomaria lanceolata

A native fern

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Quite a coarse fern that grows approx. 60 cm high. This kiokio forms rosettes of leaves with dark coloured fertile fronds in the middle. This species is usually found in damp places, like on the banks of a stream or in the shade where there is also plenty of moisture. The fronds can have a pinkish tinge when young, but develop into a darker green.

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This image shows a spore-bearing frond. Each of the narrow pinnae or "leaves" on this frond will develop spores, contained in structures called sporangia, which are in turn grouped in clusters called sori along the underneath side of the pinnae. The edge of the pinnae rolls inwards to protect the developing sori.

FOOD: Young fronds wrer cooked and eaten as greens (Best 1903, 1908) Sometimes used to cover baskets of eels or kokopu when cooking.