Photo: Wang.QGCC BY 4.0via iNaturalistresized / cropped
Cyathea latebrosa Plant Care
Alsophila latebrosa Wall. ex Hook.
Updated · Sources · How we source care data
This plant is known for its large, glossy fronds that can reach up to 6 feet in length, making it a striking addition to any tropical garden. Originally from the cloud forests of Ecuador, Alsophila latebrosa is highly sought after by plant collectors for its unique appearance and rarity in cultivation. Its vibrant green color and graceful, arching shape make it a standout choice for those looking to add a touch of the exotic to their indoor or outdoor spaces.
Every 7–14 days
Bright indirect to low light
60–80°F
60–80%
At a glance
How do you care for Cyathea latebrosa?
Water Cyathea latebrosa every 7–14 days, letting the top layer of soil dry out between waterings, and give it bright indirect to low light. It prefers temperatures of 60–80°F (16–27°C) and 60–80% humidity. Fertilize it every 6 months during the growing season.
What Is the Cyathea latebrosa?
Cyathea latebrosa (Alsophila latebrosa) belongs to the Cyatheaceae family within the Alsophila genus. Cyathea latebrosa is native to Indochina. Cyathea latebrosa is also known as Scaly tree fern.
Cyathea latebrosa displays a large, tree-like fern growth habit, reaching up to 10 ft tall with a spread of approximately 5 ft. Cyathea latebrosa produces non-flowering.
Leaf size: approximately 36 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Cyathea latebrosa?
Alsophila latebrosa requires watering every 7–14 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 7–14 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Cyathea latebrosa Need?
Cyathea latebrosa thrives in bright indirect to low light. Avoid placing Cyathea latebrosa in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Bright indirect to low light
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Cyathea latebrosa Prefer?
Alsophila latebrosa grows best at temperatures of 60–80°F. Cyathea latebrosa prefers humidity levels of 60–80%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.
Temperature
60–80°F
Humidity
60–80%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Cyathea latebrosa?
Rich, well-draining soil with high organic content. Good drainage is essential for Cyathea latebrosa to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Often Should You Fertilize a Cyathea latebrosa?
Feed Cyathea latebrosa every 6 months during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer diluted to the strength on the label.
Pause feeding in autumn and winter, when growth slows, and never fertilize dry soil — water first.
Fertilizing
Every 6 months
During the growing season
The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.
How Do You Repot a Cyathea latebrosa?
Repot every 2-3 years. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Cyathea latebrosa?
Cyathea latebrosa can be propagated through spores.
Is the Cyathea latebrosa Toxic to Pets and Children?
Pet safety not verified
The ASPCA does not list Cyathea latebrosa, so we can't confirm whether it is safe for cats and dogs. Keep pets from chewing it as a precaution.
This is a general caution, not veterinary or medical advice. If your pet ate a plant, contact your vet or animal poison control.
See all plants toxic to cats and plants toxic to dogs.
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Cyathea latebrosa?
Cyathea latebrosa is susceptible to spider mites, scale insects. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Cyathea latebrosa Need?
Cyathea latebrosa grows outdoors in USDA Zone 10b – 12b. It survives winters down to planting zone 10b. Cyathea latebrosa is native to Indochina. In cooler regions, grow Cyathea latebrosa as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 10b – 12b
Keep exploring plants
Cyathea latebrosa is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Alsophila genus — compare its care with other Alsophila species on PlantoScan.
Alsophila is part of the Cyatheaceae plant family — browse all Cyatheaceae genera and species.
Cyathea latebrosa copes with lower light than most plants — browse the full list of low-light plants.
Related Plant Care Guides
Closely related plants with similar care requirements:
Sources
- Scientific name & taxonomy: Alsophila latebrosa Wall. ex Hook., family Cyatheaceae (first published in Sp. Fil. 1: 37 (1844)) — World Flora Online record, IPNI name record.
- Pet toxicity: Pet safety not verified: the ASPCA does not list Cyathea latebrosa, so we can't confirm whether it is safe for cats and dogs. Checked against the ASPCA plant list; any other toxicity note on this page comes from PlantoScan's plant database.
- Photo: Wang.QG, CC BY 4.0, iNaturalist — original.
- Hardiness zone: USDA Zone 10b – 12b, estimated from the plant's typical growing conditions.
- Care values(watering, light, temperature, humidity, soil, fertilizing): PlantoScan's plant database, filtered by automatic plausibility checks — values that fail them are hidden. How we source and check plant data.
Spotted a mistake? Email info@upvision.media with the page link — we check and correct reported errors.
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