Cyathea medularis Black tree fern (Cyatheaceae) Evergreen fern

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Cyathea medularis
Black tree fern
Evergreen fern
(1 Page of 5)

The Cyathea medularis plant species is found in Australia, New Zealand. It is a member of the Cyatheaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Black tree fern.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Cyathea medularis
Common Name:  Black tree fern
Family:  Cyatheaceae
Author:  (Forst.f.)Sw.

Known Hazards:  Although we have found no reports of toxicity for this species, a number of ferns contain carcinogens so some caution is advisable[200]. 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[172].

Mature Height:  9   Mature Width:  6

Habitat:  Lowland forests in North, South and Stewart Islands of New Zealand[44].

Cultivation Notes: Prefers a humus-rich soil in a sheltered light position but with shade from strong sun It grows well in light woodland. Requires shelter from winds, an abundance of moisture at its roots and its trunk kept wet[1, 49, 200]. A very ornamental plant, it succeeds outdoors in woodland conditions in the mildest parts of the country, but is tender in most parts of Britain[49]. It can bet grown in pots in a shady position in a conservatory or cool greenhouse and placed outside in the summer[1]. It can grow well in very small pots[1]. Members of this genus are rarely if ever troubled by browsing deer[233].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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