Common Name: Rough Tree Fern

General Information

Cyathea australis is an evergreen tree fern that can grow up to 12 metres tall, occasionally to 18 metres[].
The plant is utilized by native people as a source of food and is often grown in gardens as an ornamental[, ].

Known Hazards

Although we have found no reports of toxicity for this species, a number of ferns contain carcinogens so some caution is advisable[].
Many ferns also contain thiaminase, an enzyme that robs the body of its vitamin B complex. In small quantities this enzyme will do no harm to people eating an adequate diet that is rich in vitamin B, though large quantities can cause severe health problems. The enzyme is destroyed by heat or thorough drying, so cooking the plant will remove the thiaminase[].

Botanical References

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Range

Eastern Australia - Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania.

Habitat

Very abundant in forests and forest margins[]. Often in shaded ravines near flowing water[].

Properties

Edibility Rating
Other Uses Rating
Habit	Evergreen Fern
Height	12.00 m
Cultivation Status	Ornamental, Wild

Cultivation Details

Able to grow in climates from warm temperate to tropical[]. Plants experience snow in the south of their range and can survive occasional temperatures as low as -7c[].

Edible Uses

Starch is obtained from tissues in the top of the trunk[]. This is eaten raw or roasted[].

Medicinal

None known

Other Uses

The hard part of the stem is made into walking sticks and fancy furniture[].

Propagation

Spores - can be surface sown at any time of the year in a light position[]. Keep moist by standing the pot in shallow water or by enclosing it in a plastic bag. Germinates in 1 - 3 months at 25°c. Prick out patches of the young plants into small pots and stand the pots in shallow water until the plants are well established[]. Grow on in a shady position until large enough to plant out.

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