Cyathea cooperi, commonly known as the Australian tree fern or lacy tree fern, is native to the rainforests of eastern Australia, particularly Queensland and New South Wales. It has a tall, slender, fibrous trunk topped with a graceful crown of finely divided, bright green fronds that can reach up to 4 m long. The new fronds unfurl in distinctive, coiled shapes, giving the plant a prehistoric, tropical appearance. It thrives in humid, sheltered environments
| KEY PLANT INFORMATION | |
|---|---|
| Family: | Cyatheaceae |
| Plant Type: | Tree fern |
| Plant Colours: | Green fronds brown trunk. |
| Flowering period: | None |
| Fragrance: | None |
| Mature Height: | 9-15 m (30-50ft) |
| Light Requirements: | Full shade – partial shade |
| Water Requirements: | Moderate, well-drained soil |
| Cold Hardiness: | −3⁰C / 27 °F |
| Difficulty: | Moderate |
Plant Type
Tree fern
This species is a fast-growing, evergreen tree fern known for its lush, tropical appeal. Unlike flowering plants, it reproduces through spores. It’s often used as a focal point in subtropical and temperate gardens or as a potted specimen in shaded courtyards and conservatories. Its architectural shape and large fronds make it a striking addition to shaded landscapes.
Mature Height
9-15 m (30-50ft)
Cyathea cooperi typically grows to between 9 m and 15 m (30-50 ft) in height under optimal conditions. The slender, rough-textured trunk may reach 20 cm (8 in) in diameter. Growth is relatively rapid compared to other tree ferns, and with proper humidity and warmth, it can gain over 30 cm (1 ft) per year. Its impressive height and spreading fronds create a natural canopy effect in garden settings. It’s likely to remain closer to 3-5m in UK conditions with protection from frost.
Light Requirements
Full shade to partial shade
This fern thrives in bright, filtered light or partial shade, similar to the dappled conditions of a forest understory. Direct sunlight, especially during midday, can scorch its delicate fronds. In cooler climates, it benefits from morning sun and protection from wind and frost. Indoors or in greenhouses, place it near east-facing windows for gentle light.
Water Requirements
Moderate
Cyathea cooperi needs consistently moist soil and high humidity to flourish. Water deeply and regularly, ensuring the root zone and trunk base remain damp but not waterlogged. During hot or dry periods, misting the fronds helps prevent desiccation. Mulching around the base retains soil moisture. Avoid letting the soil dry out, as this can damage the frond crowns.
frond crowns.
Cold Hardiness
−3⁰C / 27 °F
This species is semi-tender and best suited for mild, frost-free climates. It tolerates short dips to about -3 °C (27 °F), but prolonged frost can kill the crown or defoliate the plant. In cooler regions, grow it in containers that can be moved indoors or wrap the crown and trunk in winter for protection. Optimal growth occurs between 10 °C and 30 °C (50-86 °F)
Propagation tips
Cyathea cooperi reproduces via spores produced on the undersides of mature fronds. Collect ripe spores and sow them on a sterile, moist medium. Maintain warmth (around 25 °C / 77 °F), high humidity, and low light until germination occurs, which may take several weeks. Young plants are delicate-gradually acclimate them to normal humidity and transplant once sturdy. Division of mature crowns is rarely successful and not generally recommended.
