This tree fern has a slender trunk to 20 m (66 ft) tall with a mass of rootless at the base and is topped with spreading fronds almost at right angles. The large dark green divided fronds have oblong leaflets and that the fertile fronds produce spores during summer.

Hardiness zones 9 to 11

Cyathea kermadecensisis naturally found on the Kermadec Islands which is located 1000 km north-east of New Zealand and the largest is Raoul Island. It grows in dry forests on the coast and forms a large stands at an altitude of 274 m (900 ft) in wet forests where it tends to grow to 10 m (32 ft) tall.

It prefers at its semi-shaded to shaded wind protected position but will tolerate full sun when mature and grows in well-drained organic rich sandy clay loam amongst rocks that is tending acidic. This vigorous tree fern is drought tender but slightly frost tolerant.

The Kermadec Islands Tree Fern is grown for its stately habit and its attractive spreading foliage. It is planted in parks and large gardens along shaded gullies or around water features for a tropical effect.

It is also used in the understory of a woodland setting or mass planted on moist embankments. It is suitable for coastal and low-mountain regions and establishes in 3-4 years and is long-lived. This tree fern is used in commercial landscapes on the shady side of tall buildings or used in large courtyard settings. ID 3260

Note:
It is not commonly cultivated and may be difficult to obtain requiring a specialist nursery.

Cyathea(sy-AY-thee-ah) kermadecensis(KER-ma-dee-KEN-sis)

Cyatheaceae(sy-AY-thee-AY-see-ee)