Name: The Plant Company
Address: 284 Meeanee Road, Meeanee, Napier, 4112, New Zealand
Telephone: 0800 843 752
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fern leaf tree

Searching for the perfect fern leaf tree for your garden or indoor space? You’re in the right place. Fern leaf trees are renowned for their finely divided foliage and graceful forms, bringing a lush, tropical feel to gardens throughout New Zealand. Whether you seek a striking feature tree, an elegant screen, or a unique addition to a shady corner, the fern leaf tree category includes a range of exceptional plants that thrive in our climate. Let’s explore the types, uses, and care tips for these beautiful trees, and discover some popular choices among local gardeners.

Asplenium bulbiferum (Hen And Chicken Fern)

Asplenium bulbiferum, commonly known as the Hen and Chicken Fern or Pikopiko Fern, is a popular NZ native prized for its lush, arching fronds and ability to produce baby ferns (plantlets) along the leaf edges. Ideal for shaded gardens, underplanting, or pots, it thrives in moist, well-drained soil with protection from direct sun and wind.

Buy Asplenium bulbiferum (Hen And Chicken Fern)

From $26.15

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate

Plant type: Ferns

Height: 30 cm

Spread: 30 cm

Tolerances: Shade

Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Living areas, Parks, Paths & Steps, Ponds, Pool areas, Specimen

Garden styles: Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Native, Tropical

Sorbus aucuparia 'Scarlet King'

Sorbus aucuparia 'Scarlet King' is a handsome deciduous tree valued for its attractive fern like foliage, creamy white spring flowers, brilliant scarlet berries, and colourful autumn foliage. It makes an outstanding feature tree for New Zealand gardens, attracting birds while providing year round seasonal interest.

Buy Sorbus aucuparia 'Scarlet King'

From $387.55

Suited to regions: All regions

Plant type: Trees

Height: 7.00 m

Spread: 5.00 m

Flowering time: Spring

Tolerances: Hardy

Garden uses: Parks, Specimen

Garden styles: Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern

What Is a Fern Leaf Tree?

A "fern leaf tree" describes any tree-like plant whose foliage mimics the delicate, feathery appearance of ferns. These trees often feature arching fronds, lacy leaves, and can grow several metres tall, creating a dramatic canopy or lush backdrop. Classic examples include many native and exotic tree ferns, as well as ornamental trees with fern-like leaves.

Popular Fern Leaf Trees in New Zealand

Cyathea cooperi (Australian Tree Fern)

The Cyathea cooperi (Australian Tree Fern) is a highly sought-after fern leaf tree for NZ gardens. Known for its rapid growth and magnificent arching fronds, it thrives in mostly frost-free spots and adds instant jungle vibes to shaded areas.

Cyathea cunninghamii (Slender Tree Fern)

Another favourite is the Cyathea cunninghamii (Slender Tree Fern), a native New Zealand fern leaf tree offering elegant, slender fronds and a distinctive trunk. This makes it an ideal choice for landscaping around ponds, shaded walkways, or as a feature among native plantings.

Asplenium bulbiferum (Hen And Chicken Fern)

If you love smaller fern leaf forms, the Asplenium bulbiferum (Hen And Chicken Fern) is a superb option. Though not technically a tree, its prolific frond production and ability to thrive indoors or in sheltered outdoor spots make it popular for both gardens and pots.

Phlebodium aureum Blue Star (Blue Star Fern)

For indoor spaces, the Phlebodium aureum Blue Star (Blue Star Fern) provides stunning blue-green foliage. While not a tree, its dramatic, wavy leaves are reminiscent of fern leaf trees and offer the same lush visual effect.

Robinia Frisia

Some ornamental trees, like the Robinia Frisia, display intricately divided foliage comparable to ferns. This golden-leaved tree brings vibrant colour and structure to gardens, and its airy leaflets echo the elegance of fern leaf trees.

Uses and Care for Fern Leaf Trees

Fern leaf trees are ideal for creating shade, privacy, and visual interest. They suit woodland gardens, subtropical borders, and sheltered courtyards. Most prefer dappled sunlight and rich, well-drained soil. Regular mulching and protection from harsh winds ensure healthy growth and striking displays. When placing your fern leaf tree, keep in mind its mature height—some can reach several metres—and choose sites that allow their fronds to spread naturally.

Discover Your Next Fern Leaf Tree

If you want to add a fern leaf tree to your space, explore our full range from classic tree ferns like Cyathea cooperi (Australian Tree Fern) and Cyathea cunninghamii (Slender Tree Fern) to unique foliage plants such as the Phlebodium aureum Blue Star (Blue Star Fern). Embrace the lush, layered beauty of fern leaf trees and transform your landscape into a tranquil retreat.

Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

fern leaf tree

Asplenium bulbiferum (Hen And Chicken Fern)

Sorbus aucuparia 'Scarlet King'

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What Is a Fern Leaf Tree?