Cyathea lunulata

balabala
Also known as: Sphaeropteris lunulata
Family: Cyatheaceae

Recognition:

• the bases of the frond stalks are prominently clothed in beige-coloured scales.
• the stipe is long and arching.
• the sori have no indusia.

Distribution: in Fiji, common at low and median altitudes.  Widespread elsewhere in the Pacific, including Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Tonga, and Samoa (and apparently New Caledonia).

The most prominent tree fern in Fiji, being relatively tall and common in open areas.