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large fern tree

Looking to bring bold, lush greenery to your garden? A large fern tree is the perfect choice for creating a tropical oasis in your New Zealand landscape. Large fern trees are renowned for their majestic height, wide fronds, and graceful presence, instantly transforming shady corners and providing striking visual interest. Whether you’re revamping an established garden or starting from scratch, the elegant structure and fast growth of large fern trees make them highly sought-after for home gardens and landscape projects alike.

podocarpus-gracilior-

Podocarpus gracilior (African Fern Pine)

Podocarpus gracilior (Fern Pine) is an elegant evergreen tree valued for its fine textured foliage, graceful form, and versatility in the landscape. Despite its common name, it is not a true pine but offers a similar evergreen presence with a softer and more refined appearance.

From $270.40

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Trees
Height: 20.00 m
Spread: 10.00 m
Tolerances: Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy, Wind
Garden uses: Hedging, Parks, Screening, Specimen
Garden styles: Alpine, Coastal, Formal, Mediterranean
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Phlebodium aureum Blue Star (Blue Star Fern)

The Blue Star Fern features wavy leaves that are a blue-green colour. This popular indoor plant grows as a clump to about 30 cm tall and the same wide. It grows best when positioned in partial shade on a well-drained soil in a sheltered spot. It will not tolerate wet growing conditions or frost.

From $38.57

Suited to regions: Subtropical
Plant type: Indoor Plants
Height: 30 cm
Spread: 30 cm
Tolerances: Shade
Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Living areas, Paths & Steps, Patios, Pool areas
Garden styles: Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Modern, Tropical
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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...

From$387.55
Melia azedarach tree.
Melia azedarach (Bead Tree)

Melia azedarach (Bead Tree, White Cedar) is a graceful deciduous tree valued for its attractive fern like foliage, fragrant clusters of lilac...

From$387.55
podocarpus-macrophyllus-maki-1
Podocarpus macrophyllus 'Maki' (Fern Pine)

Podocarpus macrophyllus 'Maki' (Fern Pine) is a compact, upright evergreen conifer prized for its dense, dark green foliage and naturally tidy growth...

From$192.51
A large Prumnopitys ferruginea (Miro Tree) with lush, green foliage.
Prumnopitys ferruginea

Prumnopitys ferruginea, commonly known as Miro, is a majestic New Zealand native tree belonging to the Podocarp family. This long lived evergreen...

From$408.85
Large Jacaranda mimosifolia tree with blue flowers.
Jacaranda mimosifolia (Blue Jacaranda)

Jacaranda mimosifolia, commonly known as the Blue Jacaranda tree, is a tropical-looking tree that is widely planted because of its beautiful and...

From$323.65
Albizia julibrissin 'Rosea' pink flowers and lush, green foliage.
Albizia julibrissin 'Rosea'

Albizia julibrissin 'Rosea' (Silk Tree) is a stunning deciduous tree valued for its graceful spreading canopy, fern like foliage, and masses of...

From$344.95
A stunning Albizia julibrissin 'Red Silk' tree with masses of red flowers.
Albizia 'Red Silk'

Albizia 'Red Silk' is a variety of the commonly known Silk Tree, and is grown for its delicate foliage and showy flowers. The fern-like foliage is...

From$344.95
pb-95-planter-bags-
PB95 Planter Bags (Large Planter Bags)

PB95 Planter Bags are a strong and practical option for growing large trees, specimen shrubs, fruit plants, natives, and advanced nursery stock...

From$230.50
A Metrosideros robusta (Northern Rata) tree in full flower in a native reserve.
Metrosideros robusta

Metrosideros robusta, commonly known as Northern Rata, is a majestic New Zealand native tree renowned for its brilliant red flowers and large...

From$323.65
pb-60-planter-bags-
PB60 Planter Bags (Bag For Xmas Tree)

PB60 Planter Bags are a strong and practical option for growing large trees, shrubs, fruit plants, natives, and advanced nursery stock. Their...

From$169.50
Magnolia grandiflora 'Little Gem' white flower.
Magnolia grandiflora 'Little Gem'

Magnolia grandiflora ‘Little Gem’ is a compact, evergreen tree prized for its glossy green leaves and large, fragrant white flowers. Growing to...

From$41.33
Dacrydium cupressinum (Rimu) tree juvenile foliage.
Dacrydium cupressinum (Rimu Tree)

Dacrydium cupressinum, commonly known as Rimu or Red Pine, is an iconic and slow-growing tree. The juvenile form features drooping branches densely...

From$99.29
pb-28-planter-bags-
PB28 Planter Bags (Christmas Tree Bag)

PB28 Planter Bags are a durable and economical option for growing large trees, shrubs, fruit plants, natives, and other mature nursery stock. Their...

From$130.50
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Sequoiadendron giganteum

Sequoiadendron giganteum (Giant Redwood) is one of the world’s most impressive and majestic conifer trees, valued for its towering growth habit, rich...

From$270.40
Vitex lucens (Puriri) lush, green foliage.
Vitex lucens

Vitex lucens, commonly known as Puriri, is a striking New Zealand native tree prized for its lush foliage, vibrant pink to red tubular flowers, and...

From$270.40
Fagus sylvatica (European Beech) specimen tree with emerging green foliage.
Fagus sylvatica

Fagus sylvatica, commonly known as the Common Beech or European Beech, is a large, deciduous tree that grows with a broad, spreading crown. The...

From$192.51
Sophora tetraptera (Large-leaved Kowhai) yellow flowers.
Sophora tetraptera (Large Leaved Kōwhai)

Sophora tetraptera, commonly known as the Large Leaved Kowhai, is a striking New Zealand native tree admired for its bold foliage and spectacular...

From$24.15
Myoporum laetum (Ngaio) tree with lush foliage and white flowers growing in a coastal location.
Myoporum laetum (Ngaio)

Myoporum laetum, commonly known as Ngaio, is a NZ native tree grown for its lush foliage and showy flowers. It features large, fleshy, green leaves...

From$28.91
Prumnopitys taxifolia (Matai) juvenile tree growing as a specimen in a park.
Prumnopitys taxifolia (Matai)

Prumnopitys taxifolia, commonly known as Matai or Black Pine, is a stately, NZ native tree with quite different juvenile and adult forms. The...

From$309.51
prunus-kanzan-1
Prunus 'Kanzan'

Prunus 'Kanzan' is one of the most admired flowering cherry trees for New Zealand gardens, producing an outstanding display of large double pink...

From$387.55
A large Tilia platyphyllos tree in a park.
Tilia platyphyllos

Tilia platyphyllos (Large-Leaved Linden) is a magnificent deciduous tree admired for its large heart shaped leaves, fragrant pale yellow flowers, and...

From$515.35
An Acer saccharum (Sugar Maple) specimen tree in autumn with orange foliage.
Acer saccharum (Sugar Maple)

Acer saccharum, commonly known as the Sugar Maple, is a large, deciduous tree grown for its bright autumn foliage and fabled maple syrup. The leaves...

From$249.95
cedrela-sinensis-flamingo-7
Cedrela sinensis 'Flamingo' (Toon Tree)

Cedrela sinensis 'Flamingo' (Toon Tree) is a spectacular deciduous tree prized for its striking flushes of vibrant pink foliage that mature through...

From$28.91
ulmus-lobel-
Ulmus 'Lobel' (Dutch Elm Tree)

Ulmus 'Lobel' is a refined deciduous elm valued for its narrow upright form, dense green foliage, and excellent suitability as an avenue or specimen...

From$557.95
An avenue of Platanus acerifolia (London Plane trees).
Platanus acerifolia

Platanus acerifolia, commonly known as the London Plane Tree, is a large, deciduous tree grown for its foliage, stature, and showy fruits. The...

From$387.55
Phyllocladus trichomanoides lush green foliage.
Phyllocladus trichomanoides (Celery Pine)

Phyllocladus trichomanoides, commonly called Celery Pine, is a striking New Zealand native tree valued for its unique, celery like foliage and tall...

From$515.35
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Acer platanoides

Acer platanoides (Norway Maple) is a large deciduous tree prized for its broad canopy, dense shade, and attractive seasonal colour. The lush green...

From$249.95
Liriodendron tulipifera 'Fastigiata' trees with yellow foliage in autumn.
Liriodendron tulipifera 'Fastigiata' (Tulip Tree)

Liriodendron tulipifera fastigiata, also known as the Upright Tulip Tree, is a stunning deciduous tree admired for its narrow, columnar form. It...

From$515.35
Liriodendron tulipifera (Tulip Tree) yellow flower amidst lush, green foliage.
Liriodendron tulipifera

Liriodendron tulipifera, commonly known as the Tulip Tree, is a magnificent deciduous tree admired for its stately form and striking flowers. It...

From$387.55
tree-and-shrub-fertiliser-
Tree Fertiliser (Tree Fertiliser)

Using tree fertiliser results in plants having better quality foliage, more profuse flowering, stronger stems, and a much healthier and brighter...

From$13.40
Podocarpus gracilior (African Fern Pine)

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Albizia, Jacaranda, and Melia, or related Categories - Planter Bags, Indoor Plants, and Evergreen Shrubs.

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Why Grow a Large Fern Tree in Your Garden?

Large fern trees offer so much more than beautiful foliage. They thrive in the mild, moist New Zealand climate and are well suited to both urban gardens and rural retreats. Their large, feathery fronds create a cooling canopy, ideal for planting beneath or using to screen out unwanted views. As natural understory plants, large fern trees are perfect for adding texture to shaded spots or alongside water features. Their unique silhouette can bring a sense of tranquillity, making them a favourite for peaceful garden hideaways.

Popular Large Fern Tree Varieties in New Zealand

Several species stand out for their size, beauty, and adaptability. Two of the most iconic native large fern trees include the Cyathea medullaris (Black Tree Fern) and Cyathea cunninghamii (Slender Tree Fern). The Cyathea medullaris (Black Tree Fern), with its dramatic black trunk and lush foliage, can reach impressive heights and is a signature plant in New Zealand forests. The Cyathea cunninghamii (Slender Tree Fern) features a more slender trunk, ideal where space is limited but impact is essential.

For a touch of the exotic, consider the Cyathea cooperi (Australian Tree Fern). This vigorous large fern tree has lacy, arching fronds and is known for its fast growth and resilience, making it a standout in both native and mixed planting schemes.

Large Fern Tree Care and Uses

Caring for a large fern tree is straightforward with the right conditions. These ferns thrive in moist, sheltered sites with dappled light and rich, well-draining soil. Mulch regularly to keep roots cool and moist, and water during dry spells for vigorous, healthy growth. Large fern trees are low-maintenance once established. Their striking silhouette makes them invaluable as specimen trees, privacy screens, or for adding structure in native gardens.

Large fern trees pair beautifully with compact ferns like the Phlebodium aureum Blue Star (Blue Star Fern), or with contrasting evergreens such as the Podocarpus gracilior (African Fern Pine) to layer texture and colour throughout your garden.

Creating an Instant Rainforest Look

A large fern tree is a fantastic way to channel the lush look of New Zealand’s native rainforests. Plant them as a focal point, use them in groups for a dramatic canopy effect, or tuck them by seats and walkways for year-round beauty and shade. With their resilience and unmistakable charm, large fern trees are an investment in years of natural beauty and garden enjoyment. Explore our range of iconic New Zealand and exotic large fern trees to discover the perfect fit for your landscape dreams.

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.

Illustration of plant leaves.
Our garden favourites Corokia 'Geenty's Green' and Ficus Tuffi get lots of love, but don’t miss out on a few lesser-known delights: Acer palmatum 'Crimson Queen', Echeveria 'Imbricata', and Grevillea 'Nancy Otzen'.
–The Plant Company

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