Quick Guide To 4 Of New Zealand’s 10 Tree Ferns

New Zealand’s 10 tree ferns can be found throughout the country. This guide has general information about tree ferns and lists 4 common ones.

As I’ve talked about again and again, the natural world of New Zealand is incredibly unique. In fact, about 80% of the plants found in this country are endemic, meaning they can’t be found anywhere else in the world. The tree ferns of New Zealand are likewise just as unique. All are native, and 8 of them are endemic.

Overview Of New Zealand’s 10 Tree Ferns

There are two main families of tree ferns here in New Zealand, those belonging to Cyatheaceae (7 members) and Dicksonia (3 members).

Technically there are 10 species in New Zealand, but 2 of them only occur on the Kermadec Islands and not on the main islands. Thus, for practical purposes you’ll see one of 8 species of tree ferns.

4 Of New Zealand’s Common Tree Ferns

Mamaku or Black Fern

This common one grows in the lowlands and mid-altitudes of the north island and in the north and west of the south island (commonly seen in the native podocarp/broadleaf forest).

This is the tallest tree fern (up to 20 m) and is recognized by it’s thick black frond stems.

Ponga or Silver Fern

Ponga is the iconic symbol of New Zealand. It prefers warmer, drier areas and as such can be found throughout the north island and on the drier west side of the south island down to around Dunedin.

This medium sized tree can grow up to 10 meters tall. It’s most easily recognized by it’s fronds, which can grow long (up to 4 m) and are white underneath.

Wheki or Rough Tree Fern

It is common throughout New Zealand except for cold area and is often seen near streams or wet areas.

The frond stalks are hairy and dark brown. This is a medium sized tree, growing up to 7 meters tall.

Katote or Smith’s Tree Fern

This species thrives in colder climates. It can be found in mid to high altitudes on the north island and across the south island. It also lives on the subantarctic Auckland islands, which is the world’s southernmost limit!

This is a shorter tree (up to 8 m) and is distinguishable by the fact that the dead fronds fall down and form a kind of skirt around the trunk.