A fast-growing Australian native tree fern with a slender trunk marked by coin-shaped frond scars and a wide canopy of large, lacy fronds. A quick lush feature for shaded subtropical gardens.
At a glance
- Plant type: Fern
- Mature size: 6 m H × 4 m W
- Aspect: part shade or morning sun and shade and low-light positions
- Water: consistently moist soil
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Australian native
About Rough Tree Fern
Cyathea cooperi is a fast-growing fern in the Cyatheaceae family, native to Australia. It reaches around 6 m tall and 4 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage.
Where to grow Rough Tree Fern
Rough Tree Fern suits subtropical and warm-temperate climates and grows best in part shade or morning sun and shade and low-light positions. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Rough Tree Fern does best in free-draining soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Rough Tree Fern prefers consistently moist soil. As an Australian native, feed it only with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser. New plantings need closer moisture checks in hot or windy weather, with watering tapered once strong new growth appears.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Rough Tree Fern in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Its ongoing care level is low maintenance.
Using Rough Tree Fern in the garden
Rough Tree Fern earns its place for a feature or specimen planting and a shade tree.
Companion planting & design
Build the planting around neighbours suited to the same consistently moist soil and subtropical climate as Rough Tree Fern. Repeating the foliage or flower colour nearby will make the composition feel deliberate. It combines naturally with other Australian natives in a habitat or water-wise garden.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Rough Tree Fern
Plant Sale lists Rough Tree Fern as potted plants and advanced specimens. Use the interest form above to check current sizes, pricing and availability before ordering.
