East facing, north facing, south facing, west facing
Position in Border:
Back, middle
Shade Type:
Damp
Soil
Acidic / Well Drained / Light / Sandy
Tree ferns, Dicksonia, are becoming more and more popular. Native to Australia and New Zealand, they are some of the oldest plants in the world and make a dramatic statement in the garden.
Dicksonia antarctica is one of the hardier tree ferns. Its thick mass of roots form a trunk, from which large, long, filigree-like fronds appear. These fronds can grow up to 3m long. Tree ferns look striking when combined with ferns and other woodland plants, or in an exotic planting scheme. They are slow growing and can take up to 20 years to reach their mature height of 4m.
For best results grow Dicksonia antarctica in partial to full shade in moist soil. It is hardy down to -5ºC. In winter protect the crown by wrapping it up with straw, horticultural fleece or even dead fronds. The Royal Horticultural Society has given it its Award of Garden Merit (AGM).
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Advice on buying Dicksonia antartica
Use a reputable supplier and check that your tree fern has been sourced under licence
Some tree ferns are sent without fronds - it's worth checking what size you are getting for the price as tree ferns are slow growing
Always check plants for signs of damage or disease before planting.
