Silver Fern Sidelined As Favourite National Emblem
The poll, in its seventh year, is now open for voting (www.nzpcn.org.nz). NZPCN President Philippa Crisp said that despite the widespread use of the silver fern as an emblem, and lobbying for it to feature on the national flag, the plant has never even made the NZPCN’s Top 10.
“Perhaps our traditional emblems should be retired in favour of the more popular species,” said Dr Crisp. “Many people have a real love of our native flora, and this is a chance for them to express what‘s important to them, but it seems icons like the silver fern and kowhai don’t rate.”
The poll has previously identified familiar species such as pohutukawa and cabbage tree as our most beloved plants, but has also revealed the popularity of lesser known species such as the 2007 poll winner, willowherb (Epilobium microphyllum) and, in 2005, Cook’s Scurvy Grass (Lepidium oleraceum).
Recent polls also identified Poor Knights lily, kowhai, cabbage tree, Bartlett’s rata, parapara (the bird catching tree) and the scarlet mistletoe as firm favourites. In 2006 the Chatham Island Christmas Tree took top honours.
The Network’s web site attracts over 500,000 visits a year, providing evidence of New Zealanders’ continuing interest in native plant species.
“The network’s annual poll provides an opportunity to explain why we love our native plants and it highlights the importance of our unique plant life in people’s lives and to our national identity,” said Dr Crisp.
The poll covers plants of every kind, from the smallest ferns and grasses to lowland trees and forest podocarps. Voters are invited to comment about their plant of choice, which Dr Crisp said often reveals a deeper connection between the physical environment and national identity.
Votes can be cast until Sunday December 20.
Posted: 27/11/2009