Cyathea is a genus of tree ferns, the type genus of the fern order Cyatheales. They are mostly terrestrial ferns, usually with a single tall stem. Rarely, the trunk may be branched or creeping. Many species also develop a fibrous mass of roots at the base of the trunk. The genus has a pantropical distribution, with over 470 species. They grow in habitats ranging from tropical rain forests to temperate woodlands. The genus name Cyathea is derived from the Greek kyatheion, meaning “little cup”, and refers to the cup-shaped sori on the underside of the fronds.

Cyathea dregei also known as the Common Tree Fern and Gewone Boomvaring in Afrikaans, is a widespread species of tree fern in southern Africa. The specific epithet dregei commemorates Johann Franz Drège (1794-1881), a German plant collector and explorer who worked extensively in South Africa. It is indigenous to South Africa and also occurs in Swao, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Madagascar. Cyathea dregei grows on stream banks, in forest margins and in grasslands. Plants are most common at an altitude of 9001,800 metres. In the wild, it is known to be fire resistant.