Cyathea cunninghamii - Gully tree fern

Latin Name Cyathea cunninghamii

Common Name Gully Tree Fern

Cyathea cunninghamii forms a tall slender trunk fairly quickly and can grow up to 20m in height. It is best suited to dappled shade and plenty of moisture – and does not tolerate dry conditions or frosts well.
Like Cyathea smithii, it’s fronds are very soft and delicate looking – especially when new, but are prone to wind damage. It’s old fronds can hang untidily on the plant and are best pruned off.
Named after Mr Cunningham the naturalist who accompanied Captain Cook and who first described the fern (which is confined to New Zealand). There are two distinct plants - one common to the Auckland region and the other to the Wellington region. Wellington variety has a stouter trunk.