Tree Fern
Dicksonia antarcticafam. Dicksoniaceae
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Pl. 6183 — Dicksonia antarctica
Dicksonia antarcticaDicksonia antarcticaDicksonia antarcticaDicksonia antarcticaDicksonia antarcticaDicksonia antarcticaDicksonia antarcticaDicksonia antarcticaDicksonia antarcticaDicksonia antarcticaDicksonia antarcticaDicksonia antarcticaDicksonia antarcticaDicksonia antarctica
IOverview
Overview
Tree Fern (Dicksonia antarctica) is a striking evergreen plant native to the southeastern regions of Australia, including New South Wales, Queensland, Tasmania, and Victoria. This species thrives in partial sun or shade with moist soil that can range from light sandy to heavy clay. It is known for its ornamental value, as well as its edible leaves and stems. Growing up to 9 meters tall, the Tree Fern is a distinctive feature of its habitat due to its elegant fronds and robust trunk. Its adaptability makes it suitable for gardens where it can provide both beauty and utility.
Quick answers
What is Tree Fern?
Tree Fern (Dicksonia antarctica) is a striking evergreen plant native to the southeastern regions of Australia, including New South Wales, Queensland, Tasmania, and Victoria. This species thrives in partial sun or shade with moist soil that can range from light sandy to heavy clay.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Tree Fern thrives in partial sun to shade and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows well in hardiness zones 7-10, making it suitable for temperate regions. The plant can reach a height of 9 meters and is native to New South Wales, Queensland, Tasmania, and Victoria. For propagation, gardeners may use division or spores. Harvest edible parts from the leaves and stem as needed.
Light
Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
7-10
Mature size
9.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Tree Fern for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple, low-maintenance tree fern for your first gardening project.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Dicksonia antarctica plant and a pot or garden bed.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the weather is mild but not too hot.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with some sand for containers, or prepare a moist, shady spot in the garden.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants from nursery pots to larger containers or directly into the ground.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil consistently moist and avoid direct sunlight for the first few days.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Keep in a partially shaded area.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead fronds to maintain plant health but do not harvest leaves or stems for use.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, and neglecting to prune dead fronds.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesStem
Edible uses: The Tree Fern (Dicksonia antarctica) is edible and its leaves and stems can be consumed. Typically, the young shoots are harvested and prepared by boiling or steaming before being eaten as a vegetable. The leaves may also be used in salads when fresh. However, extensive preparation is often required due to their tough texture.
Other uses:Erosion control
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
4 native · 5 introduced
Distribution
4 native · 5 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 4 native· 5 introduced
Europe3 regions
introduced (3)IrelandPortugalUnited Kingdom
Broader regions
native:New South Wales, Queensland, Tasmania, Victoria
introduced:Cape Provinces
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 618375ed-bd07-43f4-9f9e-7d5dd351e182
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