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About this product
Dicksonia antarctica
Dicksonia antarctica
Pot-grown • Supplied approximately 140cm tall with a 50cm trunk
Plant Highlights: Magnificent evergreen tree fern • Graceful arching fronds • Architectural garden feature • Ideal for shaded gardens • Long-lived specimen plant
Overview
Dicksonia antarctica, commonly known as the Tasmanian Tree Fern, is one of the world's most admired tree ferns. Its stout fibrous trunk supports a crown of large, arching evergreen fronds, creating a dramatic tropical effect while remaining well suited to Irish gardens. As the fronds unfurl each spring, they provide fresh texture and movement that lasts throughout the year.
Slow-growing and exceptionally long-lived, this mature specimen makes an outstanding focal point in woodland gardens, shaded borders and sheltered courtyards. Its distinctive form combines beautifully with hostas, ferns and other shade-loving plants to create a lush, naturalistic display.
Why We Love It
- Creates an instant architectural focal point.
- Elegant evergreen fronds provide year-round texture.
- Thrives in cool, damp, sheltered gardens.
- Excellent companion for woodland planting.
- A long-lived specimen that develops even greater character with age.
Plant Details
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Dicksonia antarctica |
| Common Name | Tasmanian Tree Fern |
| Plant Type | Evergreen tree fern |
| Foliage | Large, arching evergreen fronds |
| Seasonal Interest | Fresh fronds unfurl in spring, with evergreen structure providing year-round interest |
| Growth Habit | Upright trunk topped by a broad crown of graceful fronds |
| Position | Partial shade or full shade; sheltered from strong winds |
| Soil | Humus-rich, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil |
| Mature Height | Approximately 3–5m over many years in favourable conditions |
| Mature Spread | Approximately 2–4m |
| Hardiness | Hardy in much of Ireland when established. During prolonged severe frost, protect the crown and trunk, particularly on younger or container-grown plants. |
| Soil pH | Acid to neutral |
| Growth Rate | Slow-growing (approx. 2.5cm trunk growth per year) |
Growing Guide
Position
Plant in partial or full shade in a sheltered position, protected from strong winds that may damage the fronds.
Watering
Keep the soil consistently moist, particularly during dry weather. Water directly into the crown as well as around the base during the growing season, as the trunk also absorbs moisture.
Soil
Grow in fertile, humus-rich, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. Avoid allowing the root area to dry out completely.
Hardiness and Winter Care
Suitable for outdoor cultivation throughout much of Ireland. During severe or prolonged frost, protect the crown with horticultural fleece or straw, and insulate the trunk if very cold weather is expected.
Routine Care
Remove old or damaged fronds in spring before new growth begins. Apply a balanced fertiliser during the growing season to encourage healthy frond production, and maintain consistent moisture for best performance.
Perfect For
- Woodland gardens.
- Shaded borders.
- Courtyards.
- Exotic and tropical-style planting.
- Architectural specimen displays.
Good to Know
The supplied 50cm trunk is the current height of the fibrous stem and should not be buried below soil level when planting. New fronds emerge each spring from the crown at the top of the trunk, while the trunk itself increases in height only very slowly over many years.
Product Information
- Botanical name: Dicksonia antarctica
- Supplied pot-grown.
- Supplied approximately 140cm overall height.
- Trunk approximately 50cm tall.
Size, material & use
- Product type
- Specimens
- Drainage
- Well-drained
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