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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 the Australian Tree Fern, Cyathea cooperi, which is the other common tree fern grown in California. Many arching fronds are divided into many small, toothed leaflets giving the "tree" a full head. The trunk is covered with soft reddish-brown hairs.
This fern 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.
Dicksonia antarctica is native to eastern Australia, ranging from south-east Queensland to Tasmania but for some reason it was long called New Zealand Tree Fern in the California nursery trade. We grew this popular and attractive plant from 1980 until 2018.
The information displayed on this page about Dicksonia antarctica is based on our research conducted about this plant from books in our nursery library as well as from information that is provided by reliable online resources. We also have included our own observations made about it as it grew in the nursery gardens and other gardens visited, as well how the crops of this plant performed in the containers when we had them in our nursery field. We also include comments received from others and welcome hearing from anyone who has information about this plant, particularly if it includes cultural information aiding others to better grow it.
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