Re: Tree-fern query from Hawaii

Peter,
 
No, this is not a tree fern in the classical sense (the first time I saw  one 
I too thought it was a tree fern).  Angiopteris really don't produce a  
trunk, however, they do produce an upright rhizome that is covered by massive  
auricles, or stipules that form a superficial trunk. The auricles  (stipules) are 
at the base of the fronds, and sort of support  the fronds. When the fronds 
die, the auricles remain.
 
I have seen some of these rhizomes that are approximately 4 feet tall,  and 3 
feet wide (sorry this is not in metric).  Hidden within the stipules,  are 
[usually] 2 dormant buds from which (under the right conditions), new plants  
will emerge. This is an excellent way of propagating this fern because spore  
propagation takes a longer period.  It is possible to get plants from the  
auricles in approximately 6 months, vs. 1 - 2 years via spores.
 
Reggie  Whitehead
South Miami, Florida

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