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| Category: Fern |
| Family: Dicksoniaceae (Dicksonias) |
| Origin: Australia (Australasia) |
| Evergreen: Yes |
| Flower Color: Insignificant |
| Bloomtime: Not Significant |
| Height: 12-16 feet |
| Width: 8-12 feet |
| Exposure: Shade |
| Irrigation (H2O Info): Medium Water Needs |
| Winter Hardiness: 20-25° F |
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Dicksonia antarctica (Tasmanian Tree Fern) - This is a slow growing tree fern that in time will reach 15 feet tall with a possible 6-10' spread. It is slower and shorter than Cyathea. Many arching fronds are divided into many small toothed leaflets giving the tree a full head. The trunk of the tree is covered with soft reddish-brown hairs. It does best in shade, but can be planted in sun in the foggy coastal areas. Plant in a well-drained soil and water regularly and increase to watering frequently during hot weather. Irrigation can be applied to the trunk as well as the surrounding soil but avoid watering the crown as this enhances conditions that promote diseases such as Rhizoctonia or Tip Blight (Phyllosticta). Tip blight has become a more prevalent disease of tree ferns in southern California and seriously disfigures the new growth and older foliage. This tree fern is hardy and evergreen to the mid 20's but can defoliate and resprout after prolonged temperatures down to at least 19° F.
This information about Dicksonia antarctica displayed on this web page is based on research we have conducted in our horticultural library and from reliable online resources. We also will relate observations we have made about it as it grows in our nursery gardens and other gardens visited, as well how our crops have performed in containers in the nursery field. Where appropriate, we will also incorporate comments that we receive from others and we welcome hearing from anyone with additional information, particularly if they can share cultural information that would aid others in growing this plant.
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