Where found:

• Lowland forest, usually in gullies and heavy bush
  
• Likes deep rich, damp soil, shade and shelter, rather frost tender
  

• Large tropical/semi tropical fern which is the largest herbaceous fern in New Zealand
  
• Dark, glossy green, stiff, slightly brittle fronds
  
• Boat shaped sori (spore capsules)
  
• Large starchy root was an important food source for the Maori