The Story
Plant Bio
Dicksonia antarctica, commonly known as the soft tree-fern, is a slow-growing evergreen fern native to the wet forests and gullies of south-eastern Australia. It develops a stout, fibrous trunk composed of an erect rhizome wrapped in dense roots, which supports a wide canopy of arching, deeply divided fronds.
This species is distinguished by the soft, dark red-brown hairs covering the base of its green to yellowish-brown stipes and the growing crown. Unlike many other tree ferns, the fibrous trunk acts as a sponge, absorbing moisture and providing a substrate for epiphytic plants.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Fern
Height
177 inches
Width
236 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
9, 10
Water
High
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Long-lived
Native To
South-eastern Australia
Toxicity
Non-toxic (hairs may irritate skin)
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a sheltered, semi-shaded to fully shaded site protected from strong, drying winds.
- Prepare the soil by incorporating generous amounts of organic matter to improve moisture retention while ensuring good subsoil drainage.
- Plant the trunk stable and upright, burying the base deep enough to support the weight of the canopy.
- Water both the surrounding soil and the fibrous trunk thoroughly to establish the root system.
Pro Tip
Water the fibrous trunk directly during hot or dry periods to keep the root system hydrated, but avoid pouring water or heavy fertilisers directly into the soft central crown to prevent fungal rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water the exterior of the fibrous trunk regularly during warm weather to maintain hydration.
- Trim dead, brown fronds close to the trunk to keep the plant tidy.
- Apply organic mulch around the base to conserve soil moisture.
Don't
- Never pour water or heavy granular fertilisers directly into the soft growing crown.
- Do not cut or damage live green fronds or shave the fibrous layers of the trunk.
- Avoid letting the trunk dry out completely, as recovery from severe desiccation is rare.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Soft Tree-fern, Brown Tree-fern, Tasmanian Tree Fern questions
What zones can Soft Tree-fern, Brown Tree-fern, Tasmanian Tree Fern grow in?
Soft Tree-fern, Brown Tree-fern, Tasmanian Tree Fern is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Does Soft Tree-fern, Brown Tree-fern, Tasmanian Tree Fern need full sun?
Soft Tree-fern, Brown Tree-fern, Tasmanian Tree Fern does best in part shade.
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Soft Tree-fern, Brown Tree-fern, Tasmanian Tree Fern with confidence
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