Black tree fern
Cyathea medullaris

Family: Cyatheaceae

What it is like

A tree fern. It grows to 15-20 m high. The trunks are slim and black. They are 15-20 cm across. There is a distinct leaf scar pattern. The frond bases and scales are jet black. The fronds are 6 m long and divided 3 times. The spore bodies occur in pairs of 2-6.

There are about 800 Cyathea species.

Where it is found

They grow in tropical and subtropical rainforest. It grows in damp lowland forest in New Zealand. It is sensitive to frost but very hardy once established. It does best in sheltered positions. It is mostly below 100 m altitude. It does best in a rich, well-drained humus. It suits hardiness zones 9-11. Geelong Botanical Gardens.

Countries/locations it is found in

Australia, Fiji, French Polynesia, Marquesas, New Zealand, Pacific, Polynesia, Samoa, Tahiti

How it is used for food

The pith in the centre of the stem is eaten after baking. It is cooked and dried in the sun.

Edible parts

Leaves, fronds, stem

How it is grown

Plants can be grown by spores. They are easy to transplant.

Plants grow quickly especially in sheltered locations.

Its other names

Local names

Balabala sa, Korau, Mamaku

Synonyms

Cyathea affinis W.J. Hooker & Baker; Polypodium medullare G. Forster; Sphaeropteris medullaris (G.Forster) Bernhardi;