Also known as Australian Tree Fern · Australian Tree Ferns · Australian Treefern
Soft Tree-Fern (Dicksonia antarctica) is a majestic, slow-growing tree fern native to eastern Australia, forming large, architectural specimens for temperate gardens.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial Shade
50% intensity
Prefers dappled shade or partial shade. Direct, intense sunlight can scorch the fronds, especially when young.
Consistent Moisture
75% intensity
Keep the crown moist, especially in dry weather. The substrate should be damp but never waterlogged. Reduce watering in cooler months.
Humus-rich, Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Tolerates cool to mild temperatures. Protect from hard frosts. In colder climates, provide winter protection.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed during the growing season with diluted liquid fertilizer or slow-release options. Avoid over-fertilization.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Dicksonia antarctica thrives in consistently moist conditions. Water the crown regularly, especially during dry periods, ensuring the substrate remains damp but not waterlogged.
In warmer climates, daily watering of the crown might be necessary. Reduce watering in winter when growth slows.
Pruning is minimal for Dicksonia antarctica. Remove dead or damaged fronds by cutting them back to the trunk. This encourages new growth and maintains a tidy appearance.
Avoid cutting into the living crown, as this can damage the plant.
Propagation is primarily by spores, which requires specific conditions and patience. Division of established plants is rarely successful due to their unique growth habit.
Seed germination can take months to years and is best undertaken by experienced horticulturists.
Repotting is generally not required for Dicksonia antarctica as they are often planted directly in the ground or in large, permanent containers. If a container becomes too small, select a much larger pot and top up with a well-draining, humus-rich compost.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Soft Tree-Fern (Dicksonia antarctica)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Cyatheales |
| Family | Dicksoniaceae |
| Genus | Dicksonia |
| Species | Dicksonia antarctica |
Similar in genus Dicksonia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
