Notes on Tree Ferns

To many people one tree fern looks just the same as any other and we are often asked for a "ponga" and the requester expresses surprise that there is more than one variety!!!

In terms of NZ native tree ferns there are about 9 varieties - we stock 6 and they fall into 2 distinct species -

1. Dicksoniaceae (Dicksonia for short) and the two common varieties are the squarrosa and the fibrosa. Species is distinctive due to long woody trunks and crown of fronds on the top.

2. Cyatheaceae (Cyathea for short) - different from the Dicksonia due to scales and hairs on the trunks. medullaris (Mamaku or black tree fern), dealbata (Silver), smithii (soft tree fern) and cunninghamii (Gully tree fern) are the most common.

Tree ferns can augment many a garden but do understand that they are in general shade lovers and they will keel over if you don't attend to their watering needs!!! Wind is also an enemy so find a shaded place - plant and enjoy!!!

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Re-locating a tree fern We sometimes get asked the question "we have a tree fern (not sure what variety) and we want to relocate it from its present position - can we do that and will it regrow?"
Notes on Tree Ferns To many people one tree fern looks just the same as any other and we are often asked for a "ponga" and the requester expresses surprise that there is more than one variety!!!