Cyathea medullaris

Origin: New Zealand

This is a magnificent Tree Fern native to New Zealand, Fiji, and Polynesia. In New Zealand it is possibly the most common tree fern, and it is found growing in a large range of microclimates and situations throughout the North and South islands. It is a rapid grower and makes a very imposing specimen even in less than perfect conditions.

Although relatively few fronds remain on the crown at once, they can reach in excess of 5 metres long on vigorous young plants in their native habitat. Fronds are tripinnate. Its large size and black shiny leaf bases make it a most spectacular plant in cultivation. Trunks will grow up to heights of 20 metres (67 feet).

In New Zealand it grows in open sun but would benefit more in a sheltered situation with plenty of moisture.

I have one in my garden that has survived the last 5 winters no problem and is now beginning to show it's true form with huge big fronds on it.

When the frosts come you will lose the fronds for that year especially if you get a dry east wind. Trunk protection is important (essential if temperatures are going to below -4) to ensure a healthy crop for the following spring. Can be slow to get started but well worth the effort when it gets going.

It actually needs greater heat to generate growth than any of the other tree ferns and therefore it is slow to send up fronds. Last year, 2005, I got 5 fronds which is the most yet in a single season. The new fronds are already uncurling as of early April after is survuved totally unprotected through the winter.

In wintertime don't water and if necessary only water at the base to avoid rotting of the trunk. This is a high maintenance tree fern out of doors in most areas of Ireland and Britain, but when it works it is the best!

Pictures are of a Cyathea medullaris growing in Ireland.

Origin : New Zealand
Common Name : Mamuku, Black Tree Fern
Hardy scale : Hardy to around -3 Celsius
N.B. Not very hardy needs winter protection outdoors.

Size (feet) Size (cm)	Price	Availability
1 foot/30cm to 2.5 foot trunk (75cm) approx	€ 9.00 per inch/3cm of trunk limited numbers
Please note all these ferns are now fully rooted and 'fronded on'

May 2008 News Update -

New stock of Juania australis, Agave montana, Agave gentryi, Trachycarpus wagnerianus, Trachycarpus martianus 'Nepal Form' and many more.

Xanthorrhoea glauca GrassTree -

Picture of X. glauca in my garden 2005

X. glauca Grasstree - Prices start at €275.00

Dicksonia fibrosa Tree Fern carvings now available -

Sample photo of carving that we have in stock:

Beautiful, natural, sculptures in many forms from Dicksonia fibrosa and Black Mamaku