Common Name: King Fern
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.
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[
Australasia - Australia, New Zealand to the South Pacific.
Forests and forest remnants.
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[
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