Silver Fern
Cyathea dealbata
Silver Fern (Cyathea dealbata) is an iconic New Zealand tree fern, easily recognized by the silvery-white undersides of its fronds. It is a symbol of New Zealand’s natural heritage and is widely used in landscaping and as a national emblem. Learn more about New Zealand ferns
Image credit: Silver Fern (Cyathea dealbata). Wikipedia
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Cyathea dealbata |
|---|---|
| Height | Up to 10 m (trunk); fronds up to 4 m long |
| Spread | 2–4 m (crown diameter) |
| Water Needs | High; prefers consistently moist soil |
| Light | Partial shade to dappled sunlight |
| Frost Tolerance | Moderate (tolerates light frost, protect from severe frost) |
| Salt Tolerance | Low to moderate (not suited to exposed coastal sites) |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Lifespan | Long-lived (decades to over 100 years) |
Climate Best Suited To
Prefers mild, humid climates with regular rainfall. Common in lowland and coastal forests throughout New Zealand.
Regional Suitability
Widespread in the North and South Islands, especially in moist, sheltered sites.
| City | Suitability |
|---|---|
| Whangārei | Ideal |
| Auckland | Ideal |
| Hamilton | Ideal |
| Tauranga | Ideal |
| Rotorua | Ideal |
| Gisborne | Ideal |
| New Plymouth | Ideal |
| Napier | Ideal |
| Whanganui | Ideal |
| Palmerston North | Ideal |
| Wellington | Ideal |
| Nelson | Ideal |
| Christchurch | Good |
| Dunedin | Moderate |
| Invercargill | Marginal |
Growing Requirements
Soil
Moist, well-draining, rich in organic matter.
Light
Partial shade to dappled sunlight.
Water
Consistent moisture, especially when young.
Uses & Significance
Garden Uses
- Iconic feature plant for native gardens
- Excellent for shaded, moist areas
- Provides shelter and habitat for native wildlife
- National symbol of New Zealand
- Used in Māori art and medicine
- Important canopy species in native forests
- Stabilizes soil and prevents erosion
Seasonal Care Calendar
Spring
New fronds unfurl; keep soil moist and mulch around base.
Summer
Water during dry spells; protect from harsh sun.
Autumn
Remove old fronds; check for pests.
Winter
Minimal care needed; protect young plants from frost.
Pruning
Remove dead or damaged fronds as needed. Avoid cutting the growing tip.
Planting Guide
- Choose a sheltered, moist site
- Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball
- Plant at the same depth as in the pot
- Water well after planting
- Mulch to retain moisture
Propagation Methods
Propagate from spores or by transplanting young offsets. Spores are collected from the undersides of mature fronds in summer.
Cultural History
The silver fern is a national symbol and has been used in Māori medicine and art. The silvery frond undersides were used for wayfinding at night.
Pests & Diseases
Generally pest-free. Watch for scale insects and root rot in poorly drained soils.
Bonus Tip
Mulch well and keep soil moist for lush, healthy fronds. Avoid disturbing the root zone.
Cultural Significance
Traditional Uses
The silver fern is a national symbol and has been used in Māori medicine and art.
Learn more about the cultural significance of native trees in Cultural Plants.