Cyathea medullaris is the tallest-growing of New Zealand’s tree ferns and is characterized by its distinctive tall, black trunk. Cyathea medullaris prefers moisture-rich soil and shelter from wind. It naturally grows in lowland and hilly forest terrain up to about 600m altitude and on partially open sites throughout the country. However, it does not tolerate heavy frosts, major drought, or strong winds. Cyathea medullaris has a very wide, almost horizontal, frond spread (about 10m to 14m when fully grown), making it best for larger gardens. Cyathea medullaris is evergreen and native to New Zealand in the North Island, South Island, and Chatham Islands and also in Fiji, the Marquesas Islands, Pitcairn Island, Society Island, and Tubuai Island. Learn more about Cyathea medullaris.