Hypolepis rugosula, commonly known as Ruddy Ground Fern, is a fern species that thrives in a variety of habitats including rainforests, wet sclerophyll forests, and disturbed areas. It is native to Australia, New Zealand, and some Pacific islands. This fern typically forms large colonies with fronds reaching up to 1.5 meters in length, creating a dense ground cover. The fronds are bright green and have a rough texture, which is reflected in the species name ’rugosula’. The fern does not produce showy flowers, as it reproduces via spores that are located on the underside of the fronds.

Ruddy Ground Fern is valued for its ability to quickly cover bare ground, making it useful for erosion control and restoration projects. It is also used in shaded garden areas where other plants may struggle to grow. In cultivation, it prefers moist, well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of light conditions from part shade to full shade. While it is relatively low-maintenance, it requires consistent moisture to thrive. Gardeners should be cautious when planting Hypolepis rugosula outside its native range, as it can become invasive and outcompete native vegetation.CC BY-SA 4.0