Family: Cyatheaceae
Author: (Hook. ex F.Muell.) R.M.Tryon
Bibliography: Contr. Gray Herb. 200: 24 (1970)
Year: 1970
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Sphaeropteris
Vegetable: False
Observations: E. Australia
Description
Cooper’s Cyathea
Cooper’s Cyathea, scientifically known as Sphaeropteris cooperi, is a striking and iconic tree fern native to the lush landscapes of Eastern Australia. Exuding an ancient and majestic presence, this plant is highly regarded for its ornamental value as well as its remarkable adaptability to various growing conditions.
Belonging to the family Cyatheaceae, Cooper’s Cyathea stands out due to its elegant, arching fronds that can reach impressive lengths. These fronds are supported by a sturdy, woody trunk that gradually elevates as the tree fern matures, giving rise to the characteristic palm-like structure that is a hallmark of this species.
First described in botanical literature by (Hook. ex F.Muell.) R.M.Tryon in the work “Contr. Gray Herb.”, Cooper’s Cyathea is noted for its resilience and ability to thrive both in its native habitat and in domestic gardens worldwide. In its natural setting, it contributes significantly to the understorey of rainforests, adding to the biodiversity and structural complexity of these ecosystems.
The fronds of Sphaeropteris cooperi are finely divided with a feather-like appearance, contributing to its graceful and lush look which makes it a favored choice among gardeners seeking a tropical aesthetic. Its growth is relatively fast compared to other tree ferns, and it requires a humid environment with consistent moisture, yet can be tolerant of short dry spells once established.
Cooper’s Cyathea demonstrates a fascinating survival strategy through the production of spores, ensuring its continuation in diverse environments. In cultivation, it can be propagated by these spores with careful attention to its growing conditions, though patience is required as it can be a lengthy process.
Beyond its visual appeal, this tree fern also plays a role in traditional practices and ecological compositions within its native range. As an essential component of the forest floor, it provides habitat and food for various wildlife, while also contributing to forest regeneration with its decomposing fronds enriching the soil.
With its lush, feathery fronds and stately growth, Cooper’s Cyathea is not just a marvel of botanical beauty but also a testament to the rich flora of Eastern Australia. Whether in wild splendour or cultivated gardens, this ancient and elegant fern continues to captivate the imaginations of botanists and plant enthusiasts alike.
Common Names
Eng: cooper’s cyathea
En: Cooper’s cyathea, Australian Tree Fern, Scaly tree fern
Fr: Cyathée de Cooper, Fanjan australien
Synonyms
- Alsophila australis var. pallida (F.M.Bailey)
- Cyathea brownii var. cooperi ((Hook. ex F.Muell.) Domin)
- Cyathea australis var. pallida ((Bailey) Domin)
- Alsophila excelsa var. cooperi ((Hook. ex F.Muell.) Domin)
- Cyathea cooperi ((Hook. ex F.Muell.) Domin)
- Alsophila australis var. cervicalis (F.M.Bailey)
- Cyathea australis var. cervicalis ((Bailey) Domin)
- Alsophila cooperi (Hook. ex F.Muell.)
- Alsophila hilliana (F.Muell.)
Distribution
- New South Wales (native)
- Queensland (native)
- Azores (introduced)
- Cape Provinces (introduced)
- Hawaii (introduced)
- KwaZulu-Natal (introduced)
- Madeira (introduced)
- Mauritius (introduced)
- New Zealand North (introduced)
- Réunion (introduced)
- Tanzania (introduced)
- Victoria (introduced)
- Western Australia (introduced)
Additional Images
Habit
Taken Sep 21, 2021 by Gabib (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 17, 2020 by Lexo (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 1, 2021 by ian connop (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 6, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 27, 2022 by Elius Elius (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Jul 10, 2021 by epthianura (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 1, 2021 by ian connop (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 22, 2022 by William Coville (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 6, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 27, 2022 by Elius Elius (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Jul 22, 2022 by William Coville (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 9, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Jul 22, 2022 by William Coville (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 27, 2022 by Elius Elius (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 6, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 6, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 9, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Aug 17, 2020 by Lexo (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 23, 2021 by Felix (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 9, 2022 by Fran Munoz (cc-by-sa)
Taken Feb 28, 2022 by Sarah Domingos (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 27, 2022 by Elius Elius (cc-by-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5274893)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:17532470-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Sphaeropteris cooperi (F. Muell.) R.M. Tryon)
