Dicksonia antarctica / 17Cm
Dicksonia antarctica / 17Cm
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Dicksonia antarctica – Soft Tree Fern, Supplied in a P17 Pot
Plant Highlights: Large, arching green fronds • Distinctive tree-like form as it matures • Suited to sheltered, shaded gardens • Strong architectural foliage • Can be grown in a large container while young
Overview
Dicksonia antarctica, commonly known as the soft tree fern, is an impressive fern that gradually develops a fibrous, trunk-like stem topped by a crown of long, finely divided fronds. Young plants begin as leafy rosettes, with the characteristic trunk forming slowly over time.
Its broad spread and layered foliage create a lush, woodland character in sheltered courtyards, shaded borders and fern gardens. Although established specimens can become substantial plants, trunk development is slow, making this P17 plant suitable for growing in a container while young.
Plant Details
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Dicksonia antarctica |
| Common Name | Soft Tree Fern or Tasmanian Tree Fern |
| Plant Type | Evergreen or semi-evergreen tree fern |
| Foliage | Large, arching, finely divided green fronds |
| Position | Partial shade or full shade |
| Soil | Humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil |
| Growth Habit | Upright crown with spreading fronds |
| Mature Height | Potentially 2.5–4 m over many years |
| Best Uses | Sheltered borders, courtyards, woodland gardens and large containers |
Growing Guide
Choose a humid, sheltered position protected from strong wind, drying sun and severe frost. Partial shade is usually ideal, although full shade is suitable where the site still receives good natural light.
Plant in humus-rich soil that retains moisture while draining freely. Water regularly during the growing season, paying attention to both the soil and the fibrous stem as the plant matures. The crown and root area should not be allowed to dry out during warm or windy weather.
Container-grown plants require frequent moisture checks because their compost dries faster than open ground. Ensure the container drains reliably and never leave it standing in water.
Winter Protection
Young tree ferns are more vulnerable to frost than larger, established specimens. In Dublin, position the plant in a sheltered microclimate and protect it before freezing weather.
A container-grown young plant is best moved into a cool, bright, frost-free greenhouse, conservatory or other protected space for winter. Larger outdoor plants need insulating material placed around the crown during cold spells, while the pot and roots also require protection.
Avoid leaving wet protective material packed into the crown for prolonged periods, and remove winter wrapping when conditions improve.
Seasonal Care
Remove only dead or damaged fronds, cutting them close to the crown without injuring emerging growth. New fronds unfurl from the centre in spring and early summer.
Allow plenty of room around the plant as the fronds can spread widely with age. Repot container plants when roots become crowded or the compost no longer holds moisture evenly.
Product Information
- Supplied in a P17 nursery pot.
- Young soft tree fern with arching, divided foliage.
- Best grown in a sheltered position with partial or full shade.
- Requires consistent moisture and protection from frost.
- Pot size does not indicate trunk height or the plant’s eventual dimensions.