Cyathea dealbata - XL

About the Cyathea dealbata - XL

Cyathea dealbata, also known as the silver fern, is an evergreen tree fern with an upright trunk and a broad crown of fronds. Its finely divided fronds are green above and usually silvery white beneath on mature plants. This plant is offered in size XL.

Characteristics

Origin: This species is native to New Zealand, where it grows mainly in lowland forests and scrub.

Family: The species belongs to the Cyatheaceae, a family of tree ferns.

Position: In frost-free weather, the plant can be placed outdoors in a spot sheltered from wind. For indoor cultivation, a bright greenhouse or conservatory with sufficient space and humidity is suitable.

Height: Mature plants can reach around 10 metres in the wild. In a container, the eventual height depends on root space and growing conditions.

Flowering period: This tree fern does not flower; it reproduces by spores.

Flower colour: Flower colour does not apply, as this is a spore-producing plant.

Hardiness: This species tolerates only limited frost and is not reliably hardy in the Dutch climate. Overwinter container plants in a bright, frost-free place, such as a greenhouse or conservatory maintained at a minimum of 10°C.

Soil type: Use an airy growing medium rich in organic matter that retains moisture while allowing excess water to drain. An acidic to neutral substrate is suitable.

Care

Light: Provide partial shade or filtered daylight. Protect the fronds from intense midday sun.

Water: Keep the root ball evenly moist and allow excess water to drain away. In hot, dry weather, also moisten the trunk, if present, but keep the crown as dry as possible in winter.

Fertiliser: Apply a suitable liquid feed regularly during active growth, following the dosage on the packaging. Do not feed when the plant is barely growing.

Pruning: Carefully remove dead or badly damaged fronds. Leave healthy fronds in place and avoid damaging the growing point at the centre of the crown.

Repotting: Repot in spring when the roots have filled the pot. Use a slightly larger, stable container with drainage holes and maintain the same planting depth.

Humidity: Provide high humidity along with adequate ventilation. Avoid dry air from indoor heating and drying winds around the fronds.

Special features: Cyathea dealbata is also known as Alsophila dealbata. The round clusters of spore cases beneath fertile fronds are a normal part of its reproduction.