Prickly shield fern, Puniu
Polystichum vestitum
Family: Dryopteridaceae
What it is like
A large tufted fern. It can grow in clumps 2 m across. It is coarse and prickly. The fronds grow 30-100 cm long. They are covered with harsh black-brown scales.
There are about 200 Polystichum species.
Where it is found
It is a temperate plant. It grows in cold damp locations. It suits hardiness zones 7-10.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia (country/location of origin), Macquarie Island, New Zealand, Tasmania
How it is used for food
The young curled fronds are eaten.
Edible parts
Fronds, leaves