Cyathea medullaris
Mamaku




The tallest-growing of New Zealand's tree ferns. Has a distinctive, tall, black trunk. Prefers moisture-rich soil and shelter from wind. Can grow to 20m tall with up to 5m long fronds in ideal conditions.
Stem | Foliage | Flowers | Fruit | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Summer |
|
|
|
|
Autumn |
|
|
|
|
Winter |
|
|
|
|
Spring |
|
|
|
|
10 Year Size
Family: Cyatheaceae, a family of tree ferns.
Genus: Cyathea, cyathea, derived from the Latin noun cyathus meaning 'a small ladle, beaker, or cup', in reference to the cup-shaped sori on the underside of the fronds of species in this genus. A genus of tree ferns that grow in habitats ranging from tropical rain forests to temperate woodlands.
Species: Cyathea medullaris, medullaris (Latin, adjective), meaning 'pithy, filled with pith or marrow', in reference to the pith of the trunk of this species that was cooked and eaten by Māori.
Synonyms: Sphaeropteris medullaris
Common Name: Mamaku
Other Common Name(s): Black Tree Fern