Tree Fern
(Cyathea delgadii)
Tree Fern (Cyathea delgadii)
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Dick Culbert
CC BY 2.0
Image By:
Dick Culbert
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY 2.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Dick Culbert | License Type: CC BY 2.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/ | Uploader: Dick Culbert | Publisher: Flickr |



















Estimated Native Range
Summary
Cyathea delgadii, commonly known as Tree Fern, is an evergreen fern native to the understory of tropical and subtropical forests in South America. It is characterized by a tall, erect trunk that can reach heights of 1.5–10 meters (4.9–32.8 ft) and a diameter of 5–15 cm. The fronds are large and lacy, creating a dramatic, arching canopy that can spread several meters wide. The plant does not produce flowers but has a distinctive appearance with its tall, singular trunk and crown of green fronds.
Tree Ferns are valued for their prehistoric, lush appearance and are often used as focal points in shade gardens or in conservatories. They require consistent moisture and benefit from being planted in well-drained humus-rich soil. While they can tolerate some sun, they prefer dappled shade or part shade conditions, mimicking their natural forest floor habitat. In cultivation, they should be sheltered from strong winds and provided with a warm microclimate to thrive. Cyathea delgadii is not known for significant pest or disease problems, but it may suffer from root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils. It is not considered invasive when grown outside its native range.CC BY-SA 4.0
Tree Ferns are valued for their prehistoric, lush appearance and are often used as focal points in shade gardens or in conservatories. They require consistent moisture and benefit from being planted in well-drained humus-rich soil. While they can tolerate some sun, they prefer dappled shade or part shade conditions, mimicking their natural forest floor habitat. In cultivation, they should be sheltered from strong winds and provided with a warm microclimate to thrive. Cyathea delgadii is not known for significant pest or disease problems, but it may suffer from root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils. It is not considered invasive when grown outside its native range.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Fern, Tree
- Height: 6-30 feet
- Width: 6-15 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: N/A
- Flowering Season: Non-Flowering
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Part Shade, Full Shade
- Water: High
- Drainage: Medium
Common Uses
Deer Resistant
Natural Habitat
Understory of tropical and subtropical forests
Other Names
Common Names:
Scientific Names: , Cyathea delgadii, Cyathea schanschin, Cyathea vestita, Cyathea feei, Cyathea pilosa, Cyathea copelandii, Cyathea denticulata, Cyathea abruptecaudata, Cyathea hirtula
GBIF Accepted Name: Cyathea delgadii Pohl ex Sternb.