Common Name: King Fern

General Information

King fern is an evergreen fern producing fronds up to 5 metres tall that emerge from a stout, starchy rootstock.
The pith of the stem was a traditional food for native peoples. It is little used nowadays.
The plant is under serious threat in its native habitats due to habitat destruction and browsing by introduced mammals such as pigs and goats.

Known Hazards

Although we have found no reports of toxicity for this species, a number of ferns contain carcinogens so some caution is advisable[].
Many ferns also contain thiaminase, an enzyme that robs the body of its vitamin B complex. In small quantities this enzyme will do no harm to people eating an adequate diet that is rich in vitamin B, though large quantities can cause severe health problems. The enzyme is destroyed by heat or thorough drying, so cooking the plant will remove the thiaminase[].

Botanical References

Range

Australasia - Australia, New Zealand to the South Pacific.

Habitat

Forests and forest remnants.

Properties

Edibility Rating
Habit	Evergreen Fern
Height	5.00 m
Cultivation Status	Wild

Cultivation Details

Not known

Edible Uses

A starch is obtained from the pith of the stem[].
The succulent rhizome is used as a vegetable - it can be boiled, baked or roasted[].

Medicinal

None known

Other Uses

None known

Propagation

Spores -

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