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tree ferns of new zealand

The tree ferns of New Zealand are some of the most iconic and treasured native plants in Kiwi gardens and wild landscapes alike. With their dramatic fronds, elegant trunks, and lush, prehistoric appeal, tree ferns add a uniquely natural character to any garden. Whether you’re seeking a tall, stately focal point for a shaded corner or a smaller specimen to enhance borders and underplantings, there’s a native tree fern species perfectly suited for your needs. Read on to discover the beauty and diversity of the tree ferns of New Zealand and how to incorporate these stunning plants into your own outdoor sanctuary.

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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 scarlet berries, and colourful autumn foliage. It makes an outstanding feature tree for New Zealand gardens, attracting birds while providing year round seasonal interest.

From $387.55

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Trees
Height: 9.00 m
Spread: 4.50 m
Flowering time: Spring
Tolerances: Hardy
Garden uses: Parks, Specimen
Garden styles: Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern
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Acer palmatum 'Senkaki'

Acer palmatum 'Senkaki', commonly known as the Coral Bark Japanese Maple, is a beautiful deciduous tree prized for its brilliant coral red branches that light up the winter garden. Fresh green foliage emerges in spring, provides elegant summer colour, and develops vibrant golden yellow and orange tones in autumn.

From $299.95

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Trees
Height: 4.50 m
Spread: 3.50 m
Tolerances: Hardy
Garden uses: Parks, Ponds, Specimen
Garden styles: Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern
An Asplenium bulbiferum (Hen and Chicken Fern) growing in a shaded postion and displaying lush, green fronds.
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...

From$26.15
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-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...

From$270.40
Acer palmatum Hanami Nishiki tree with lush green foliage.
Acer palmatum 'Hanami Nishiki'

Acer palmatum 'Hanami Nishiki' is a beautiful Japanese Maple admired for its delicately variegated foliage that emerges with soft pink, cream, and...

From$399.95
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$37.19
Acer 'Mikawa Yatsubusa' specimen tree with lush, green foliage.
Acer palmatum 'Mikawa Yatsubusa'

Acer palmatum 'Mikawa Yatsubusa' is a sought-after dwarf Japanese Maple prized for its dense, layered foliage and elegant form. Its small...

From$299.95
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Acer palmatum 'Fjellheim'

Acer palmatum 'Fjellheim' is a compact Japanese Maple prized for its dense upright habit, fresh green foliage, and brilliant coral red stems that...

From$399.95
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Acer 'Esk Sunset'

Acer 'Esk Sunset' is a stunning deciduous maple prized for its richly variegated foliage with green leaves flushed in pink, cream, and purple...

From$299.95
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$183.51
An Acer 'Katsura' specimen tree with orange and green foliage.
Acer 'Katsura'

Acer 'Katsura' is a stunning Japanese maple known for its brilliant apricot orange spring foliage that matures to fresh green before turning vibrant...

From$299.95
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 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
Metrosideros excelsa (Pohutukawa) specimen tree with masses of red flowers in a coastal location.
Metrosideros excelsa (Pōhutukawa)

Metrosideros excelsa, commonly known as Pōhutukawa or the New Zealand Christmas Tree, is a coastal evergreen renowned for its brilliant red flowers...

From$30.29
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
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
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$270.40
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
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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Tree Fertiliser

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

From$16.95
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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
A large Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa tree).
Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa Tree)

Beilschmiedia tawa, commonly known as the Tawa Tree, is a tall and graceful evergreen native to New Zealand. It is admired for its straight trunk...

From$313.00
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Palm Tree Fertiliser

Choosing the correct Palm tree fertiliser is essential for producing better quality foliage, stronger fronds, and a much healthier and brighter...

From$16.95
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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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Jute Tree Tie

Jute Tree Tie is a natural and flexible option for securing young trees to stakes while they establish. The soft material helps reduce rubbing and...

From$64.67
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Fruit Tree Fertiliser

Fruit Tree Fertiliser is specially formulated to support healthy growth, strong root development, and productive fruiting in a wide range of fruit...

From$16.95
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Tree Guards

Tree Guards provide a simple and effective way to protect young trees from animals, wind, accidental damage, and herbicide spray. They create a...

From$4.95
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Cloth Tree Tie

Cloth Tree Ties are a soft, flexible solution for securely supporting young trees and plants while they establish. Made from durable cloth material...

From$9.28
Cyathea cooperi tree fern.
Cyathea cooperi (Australian Tree Fern)

Cyathea cooperi, commonly known as the Australian Tree Fern, produces a tall and slender, brown trunk and can grow up to 15 m tall with a spread of 8...

OUT OF STOCK
A cluster of Cyathea medullaris (Black Tree Ferns).
Cyathea medullaris (Black Tree Fern)

Cyathea medullaris, commonly known as Black Tree Fern or Mamaku, is one of New Zealand's most impressive native ferns. This majestic species is...

OUT OF STOCK
Blechnum fraseri fern with lush, green fronds.
Blechnum fraseri (Miniature Tree Fern)

Blechnum fraseri is a distinctive NZ native fern admired for its upright, leathery fronds and strong architectural form. This hardy species thrives...

OUT OF STOCK
Sorbus aucuparia 'Scarlet King'

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Acer, Asplenium, and Jacaranda, or related Categories - Ground Fern, Deciduous Trees, and Evergreen Trees.

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What Makes Tree Ferns of New Zealand Special?

New Zealand’s temperate climate and lush forests provide the perfect environment for a remarkable range of tree ferns. These ancient plants have evolved to thrive in shady, moist habitats, and many native species have become indispensable to landscape designers and home gardeners throughout the country. Their bold textures and architectural forms bring dramatic visual interest—especially in dappled shade and beneath large trees where few other plants will thrive.

One of the most-loved species is the Cyathea medullaris (Black Tree Fern), or mamaku. Admired for its tall, stately trunk covered with soft black hairs and large, arching fronds, this classic tree fern makes a stunning, jungle-like statement. If you want a softer look, consider Cyathea smithii (Ponga Fern), New Zealand’s iconic silver fern, cherished for its silver-backed foliage that shimmers in the light.

Choosing the Right Tree Ferns for Your Garden

Selecting the right tree ferns of New Zealand adds both beauty and biodiversity to your garden. The graceful Cyathea cunninghamii (Slender Tree Fern) creates a delicate, lacy effect and is well suited for smaller spaces or as a companion to larger tree ferns. For something a bit different, Blechnum fraseri (Miniature Tree Fern) offers a compact habit with charming, finely divided fronds, ideal for shady borders or pots.

Even if you have limited room, you can still enjoy ferns with smaller natives like Adiantum cunninghamii (New Zealand Maidenhair Fern). While not a tree fern, its dainty, fan-shaped leaflets and soft appearance make it a beautiful companion beneath taller tree ferns.

Growing and Caring for New Zealand Tree Ferns

Tree ferns of New Zealand flourish with a regular supply of moisture, rich organic soil, and protection from harsh midday sun. They’re naturally suited to shade gardens, forest-like plantings, or as specimen plants in larger landscapes. Mulch well to conserve moisture, and water regularly during dry spells, especially while establishing young plants. Many species, like Cyathea medullaris (Black Tree Fern), will eventually form impressive trunks and can provide shelter for native birds and insects.

A thoughtful planting scheme might combine several species for layered texture and year-round interest. Pairing various tree ferns with their smaller cousins creates a truly immersive New Zealand bush atmosphere right at home.

Shop Authentic Tree Ferns of New Zealand

Inspired to bring the enchanting world of New Zealand’s tree ferns into your own garden? Explore our range of unique ferns, from the stately Cyathea medullaris (Black Tree Fern) to the elegant Cyathea smithii (Ponga Fern), compact Blechnum fraseri (Miniature Tree Fern), and more. Experience the unmatched charm of tree ferns of New Zealand and start creating your native fern garden today.

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.
You’ve probably heard of our garden favourites like Stromanthe 'Triostar' and Corokia 'Frosted Chocolate', but did you know we also grow hidden gems like Orange 'Navelate', Sisyrinchium 'Devon Skies', and Betula utilis 'Jacquemontii'?
–The Plant Company

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