Tree Fern - 'Dicksonia antarctica'

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Genus - Dicksonia

Species - Antarctica

Common Names: Australian Tree Fern, Tasmanian Tree Fern, Hardy Tree Fern, Soft Tree Fern, Man Fern

Growth Rate: Slow

Height: 15m but more likely to reach a slow 5m in the UK. The fern grows at a slow rate of about 5 cm per year.

Spread: 3 to 4m

Position: Partial shade, preferring damp sheltered woodland.

Hardiness: Half Hardy - Protect crown in winter from frost. Zone 8. They are hardy down to -10°C and the foliage is hardy to -2°C

Soil: Humus-rich, neutral to acid soil

Origin: Australia, namely New South Wales, Tasmania, and Victoria.

Summer tips: Keep the trunk and crown moist. If possible use a permanent irrigation or water at the crown every day.

Winter tips: Protect crown from frost by insulating with straw binded with chicken wire and covered in horticultural fleece.

With a thick mass of roots forming a trunk, up to 3m (10ft) long, mid- to dark green fronds. These impressive tree ferns are one of the oldest plants in the world and their fascinating appearance will soon catch the heart of any gardener. They add drama and style to a semi-shady spot, and will happily grow in any soil as long as the trunk is kept moist.

In the wild Dicksonia Antarctica is tolerant of fire and re-shoots readily afterwards. The fern grows at a rate of about 3.5 to 5 centimetres per year and produces spores at the age of about 23 years. It grows in a range of soils but does best on fertile areas. It is particularly suited to garden planting and landscaping purposes and is one of the most popular tree ferns in the world.

Propagation - Spores can be sown at any time in a warm greenhouse. Surface sow and enclose the pot in a plastic bag in order to keep it moist. Place in light shade. Germinates in 1 - 3 months at 20°c. Prick out small clumps of plants when they are large enough to handle and grow on in a shaded part of the greenhouse for at least the first 2 years. The spores can be stored dry for up to 10 years[200].

Dicksonia Antarctica - Tree fern

Being one of the oldest plants in the world – this fern is the hardiest tree fern variety – It looks great when planted with smaller ferns.

Dicksonia Antarctica - Tree fern

A fantastic, tree-like fern with a thick mass of roots that form a trunk and large, up to 3m (10ft) long, filigree-like fronds. These impressive tree ferns are one of the oldest plants in the world and add a touch drama to any garden.

Other tree ferns available online...


	Dicksonia 'fibrosa'
	A slow-growing tree fern with delicate light green fronds, superbly architectural - needs protection from the frost and a bit of t.l.c.
	Available from: Eden Project Shop

Tree Fern Harvesting

Ensure your imported tree ferns are accompanied by an environmental tag with a serial number.

Ensure your imported tree ferns are accompanied by a an environmental tag with a serial number.

	See also...