Cibotium chamissoi, commonly known as Hawaiian tree fern, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to the moist, shaded understory of Hawaiian tropical rainforests. It is a large fern that can reach heights of up to 15 feet, with a distinctive thick, woolly trunk that serves as a water reservoir during dry periods. The fronds are expansive, often reaching several feet in length, and they unfurl from the crown of the plant in a graceful, arching manner. The Hawaiian tree fern’s fronds are bright green and contribute to its lush, tropical appearance.

In cultivation, Cibotium chamissoi is valued for its dramatic presence and is often used as a focal point in tropical and subtropical landscapes. It requires consistently moist soil and thrives in partial to full shade, making it suitable for understory planting in larger gardens. While it is relatively low-maintenance, it does not tolerate cold temperatures or dry conditions well. Gardeners should be aware that this fern can be slow to establish but will become a long-lived feature once acclimated. It is not known for any significant pest or disease problems, but root rot can occur if the soil is not well-draining.CC BY-SA 4.0