Dicksonia antarctica – Soft Tree Fern

This very tough tree fern is probably the best choice if you are looking for a reliable fern for a shady position in the garden. The graceful fronds are produced throughout the warmer months of the year once the plant gets fully established, a time when it is also surprisingly capable of withstanding dry spells. The fibrous trunk should be kept shaded while the plant is getting established and once the plant reaches full size the trunk can be used as a host for epiphytes such as orchids. The only maintenance required is the removal of dead and dying fronds once or twice a year and feeding with well rotted manure at the same time.

Dicksonia Antarctica - soft tree fern
Dicksonia Antarctica - soft tree fern
Dicksonia Antarctica - soft tree fern

Family : Dicksoniaceae

Cultivar Name:

Plant Type : Fern

Width : 2

Flowering Time :

Soil Type : Loamy, Sandy loam, Clay loam, Potting mix, Poor soil

Climate Zone : Sub-tropical, Warm temperate, Cool temperate

Growth Habit : Evergreen, Spreading, Column-shaped

Soil Moisture : Moist moderate drainage, Boggy poorly drained

Special Uses : Bog gardens, Pipe and drain friendly

Scientific Name: Dicksonia antarctica

Common Name : Soft Tree Fern

Height : 15

Flower Color :

pH Level : Acid, Neutral

Plant Environment : Low maintenance garden, Courtyard, Container growing

Light : Light shade, Half shade, Heavy shade

Lifespan :

Frost Tolerance : Not frost tolerant

Attracts Wildlife :