Cyathea lepifera: Flying Spider-monkey Tree Fern

Cyathea lepifera, the Flying Spider-monkey Tree Fern, is a tall, elegant tree fern native to East Asia (Taiwan, Japan, Philippines). It develops a slender trunk up to 10-20 meters, topped by a spreading crown of large, tripinnate, lacy fronds. The stipes are long and slender. The name "Flying Spider-monkey" evokes the graceful, spreading fronds. It grows in mountain forests.

Plant Profile

This tree fern requires a mild, humid, frost-free climate (USDA 10+), shade, and consistently moist, well-drained soil. It is a magnificent specimen for large tropical and subtropical gardens, conservatories, and arboreta. The slender trunk and lacy crown give it a lighter, more graceful silhouette than Dicksonia. A stunning, tall tree fern for the right climate.