Dicksonia antarctica, commonly known as the Tasmanian tree fern or soft tree fern, is native to the cool, moist forests of southeastern Australia and Tasmania. It features a fibrous, tree-like trunk topped with a crown of large, arching fronds that can reach 3 m (10 ft) long. Its prehistoric look adds a lush, tropical feel to shaded gardens, where it thrives in consistently damp, sheltered environments.
| KEY PLANT INFORMATION | |
|---|---|
| Family: | Dicksoniaceae |
| Plant Type: | Tree fern |
| Plant Colours: | Green fronds, brown trunk |
| Flowering period: | Non-flowering |
| Fragrance: | None |
| Mature Height: | Up to 4.5 m (15 ft) |
| Light Requirements: | Partial shade to full shade |
| Water Requirements: | High, moist soil |
| Cold Hardiness: | −10 °C / 14 °F |
| Difficulty: | Easy to moderate |
Plant Type
Tree Fern
A slow-growing, evergreen tree fern, Dicksonia antarctica is admired for its architectural presence and resilience. Unlike flowering plants, it reproduces via spores, typical of ancient ferns. It develops a thick, fibrous trunk formed from old frond bases and roots, offering both support and moisture retention. This structure allows the plant to withstand brief dry spells, although it performs best in humid, shaded woodland or fernery settings.
Mature Height
4.5 m (15 ft)
Under ideal conditions, Dicksonia antarctica can reach 4.5 m (15 ft) tall, with a trunk diameter up to 30 cm (1 ft). Growth is slow—typically only a few centimeters per year—but long-lived specimens can become striking focal points. The broad, feathery fronds may extend up to 3 m (10 ft) in length, forming a graceful canopy that filters light and enhances shaded areas with vibrant green foliage.
Light Requirements
Full shade to partial shade
This fern prefers partial to deep shade, thriving under dappled light similar to its native forest habitat. Direct sunlight can scorch the fronds, particularly during hot summer months. Ideal conditions include protection from harsh afternoon sun and drying winds. It tolerates low light well, making it suitable for woodland gardens or shaded courtyards where other plants may struggle.
Water Requirements
Moderate to high
High humidity and consistent moisture are vital for Dicksonia antarctica. The trunk and crown should be kept damp at all times, as they absorb water directly. During dry or warm periods, regular misting and thorough watering are essential. The soil should be rich, loamy, and well-draining yet moisture-retentive. Mulching helps maintain humidity and soil moisture around the root zone.
Cold Hardiness
−10 °C / 14 °F
This species is among the hardiest tree ferns, tolerating temperatures down to around −10 °C (14 °F) once established. However, protection is advised in severe frost, especially for young plants or newly planted specimens. Wrapping the crown and trunk with fleece or straw can prevent frost damage. In milder climates, it remains evergreen year-round, while in colder areas it may lose fronds but recover in spring.
Propagation tips
Propagation is usually achieved through spores, which form on the underside of mature fronds. Spores can be sown on sterilized, moist compost in a warm, shaded environment, though germination is slow. Alternatively, sections of trunk may occasionally reshoot if kept moist and humid, though this is far less reliable. Patience is key, as young ferns develop slowly before establishing strong roots and trunks suitable for outdoor growth.
