Tree fern, Ponga fern, Silver fern
Cyathea dealbata

Family: Cyatheaceae

What it is like

A large tree fern. It has an erect trunk. It can be 10 m tall. Occasionally it has a creeping form. The fronds are about 4 m long. Underneath the fronds is white. The fronds are divided 3 times. The stalk is pale brown with a silver blush. It can be glossy and twisted. The bases of the stalks remain sticking out from the trunk.

It is New Zealand's National emblem. There are about 800 Cyathea species.

Where it is found

It does best in a sheltered position. It is damaged by hot sunlight. It grows naturally in dry open forest. It grows well in well-drained humus. It can stand some frost. It suits hardiness zones 9-11. Geelong Botanical Gardens.

Countries/locations it is found in

Australia, Chatham Islands, New Zealand (country/location of origin)

How it is used for food

The pith is eaten.

Edible parts

Leaves, fronds, stem

How it is grown

Plants can be grown by spores.

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Polypodium dealbatum G. Forster; Cyathea tricolor Colenso; Alsophila tricolor (Colenso)Tryon;