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].

Edible Uses: Pith of stem - raw or cooked[46, 61, 154, 173, 193]. Rich in starch, the portion below the growing point is the part used[193], do not confuse this with the trunk of the plant, which is made up of a peaty substance from the decaying roots[K]. The pith is used as a coarse sago substitute[2]. The pith contains (dry weight) 3.6% protein, 7.4% starch, 3.1% lipids and 3% simple reducing sugars[173]. The stem is often damaged some time prior to harvest in order to improve the flavour of the pith, a slimy red bitter gum exudes from the wound[173]. Harvesting the stem kills the plant and so cannot normally be condoned[193]. Base of the frond stems - cooked. Young new croziers - cooked[173]. Harvested just before they unfurl, they are juicy and slimy, tasting somewhat like bitter celery[193].

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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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