Sphaeropteris medullaris is a striking, evergreen, frost tender fern. This highly ornamental plant has a slender, black trunk. The elegant fronds grow up to 6 m (20ft) long and 2m (7ft) wide, and arch upwards from the crown. It can grow up to 20m (66ft) tall, and about 60cm (24”) in diameter at the base. The upper surfaces of the fronds are dark green and shiny and the undersides a paler jade green. Prefers a humus-rich soil in a sheltered light position but with shade from strong sun. They require shelter from winds, an abundance of moisture at its roots and its trunk kept wet. To propagate, spores can be sown at any time of year in a light position in a warm greenhouse. 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 in a greenhouse for at least the first two year.

Previously grown as Cyathea medullaris

It was used to treat skin problems, parasites and diarrhea. Its bruised pith has been used as a poultice for sore eyes and inflamed breasts.

Stem cross-sections were used to make 'pongoware' boxes in New Zealand.

Traditionally, the Maori have eaten the tender shoot of this tree fern when cooked. The pith is used as a coarse sago substitute.