Fern trees are also called Cyatheales.
Fern trees fall in the order of Cyatheales and are often categorized in either the Cyatheaceae, of which there are five genera, or the Dicksoniaceae, of which there are three genera, families. Found in various areas of the world, tree ferns provide shade and protection for wildlife and are an important part of the forest floor and canopy. Does this Spark an idea?
History
Fern trees have a long history, dating back to the dinosaurs.
Fern trees have been around a very long time. Dicksoniaceae fossils dating back 200 to 251 million years ago, or to the Triassic Period, have been found in rocks. Fossils of tree ferns from the Cyatheaceae family have been found that date back 145 to 200 million years ago, or to the Jurassic Period. Some specific fossils have been found and dated, such as a Dicksonia kendallii fossil, which dates back 172 million years. A Cyathea pinnata fossil was dated back to 34 to 56 million years.
Reproduction and Growth
Fern trees grow through circinate vernation.
Fern trees reproduce with spores that grow in the fern's sporangia. Sporangia are found on the underside of leaves, or fronds. Young fronds are curled when they first start growth and start uncurling as they grow. This process is called circinate vernation. Some species can regenerate and even be transplanted, since some can grow new root systems. Specific species can grow to be 50 to 100 years old.
Appearance
Fern trees can grow to be 79 feet high.
Though typically found at heights of 23 to 33 feet, fern trees can reach a height of 49, 59, and even 79 feet. The Cyatheaceae family have scaly trunks that stand more erect than other sprawling fern trees. Members of the Dicksoniaceae family have multiple roots, or rhizomes, that serve as a trunk.
Habitats
Fern trees are mostly found in tropical regions.
Fern trees are often found in rainforests and other tropical and subtropical habitats. They are native to South America, Africa, India, Indonesia, eastern Australia, New Guina, New Zealand, and other tropical regions. Though there are exceptions and fern tern fossils have been in Yorkshire, England and Washington state, says Ferntastic Nursery.
Care
Before growing tree ferns, check the USDA hardiness zone map that shows where these plants can and cannot grow. Water with filtered water to avoid any potential deadly chemicals from getting through. Likewise, according to Ferntastic Nursery, avoid the use of artificial fertilizers, as they can damage the plant.
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