Photo Courtesy: Marty Strenges

Australian Tree Fern

Cyathea cooperi  (Hook. ex F. Muell.) Domin.

sigh-AY thee-uh COOP-er-eye

Ferns

Explanation of name: From Greek kyatheion, meaning little cup, in reference to the appearance of the sori. The specific epithet honors Sir Daniel Cooper, Speaker of the New South Wales Legislative Assembly.

Synonym: Sphaeropteris cooperi (Hook. ex F. Muell.) R. M. Tryon

Natural range: Tropical lowlands of New South Wales and Queensland, Australia

Natural habitat: Tropical rainforest to temperate woodlands usually near flowing water, in shaded ravines (HUX)

Recognition: Trunk-forming fern to 12’-30’ tall (UF). The tall, slender, single “trunks” of Tree Ferns are enlarged rhizomes bearing the bases of old fronds. Fallen fronds leave oval scars. The trunks, stipes (petioles), and midribs of the pinnae are covered in rust-colored scales or hairs. Under ideal conditions fronds can grow to 4 m (~13’) long and the individual pinnae up to 10 cm (~4”) (HUX). The fronds are bipinnately compound, and sori are orbicular and arranged in 2 rows.

Landscape uses: If given sufficient humidity and warmth, Australian Tree Ferns are beautiful additions to a Florida landscape. They cannot tolerate extended periods of cold and require significant atmospheric moisture or overhead irrigation to perform best (PBCC).  Cyathea cooperi appreciates partial or dappled shade, but HUX suggests it can take direct sun if provided with enough moisture. Combine with other ferns and large or coarse-leaved tropicals for an untamed rainforest look.

Internet sources: UFFPS-557 at http://hort.ufl.edu/shrubs/SPHCOOA.PDF

http://www.anbg.gov.au/gnp/interns-2003/cyathea-spp.html