Tasmanian Tree Fern
Dicksonia antarctica
Also listed as Balantium antarcticum, Dicksonia billardierei
Also known as Australian Tree-fern, Soft Tree-fern, Man Fern
Climate Match for your location
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A striking prehistoric-looking fern with a dark trunk and large feathery fronds, creating a lush tropical effect. Requires consistent moisture and humid conditions to thrive.
Why grow it
Dicksonia antarctica offers year-round structural interest and tropical aesthetic in temperate climates where most tree ferns struggle, making it useful as a specimen plant in shaded woodland gardens. Compared to herbaceous ferns, its woody trunk provides architectural form and longevity, though it grows more slowly and requires more space. It tolerates cooler conditions than many tropical tree ferns, expanding options for humid, sheltered microclimates in cool temperate regions.
Watch out for
Establishment takes several years, and newly planted specimens may decline if moisture or humidity fluctuates significantly during the first season. The plant's large fronds are easily damaged by wind and foot traffic, so site selection in a protected location is important for maintaining appearance. In very dry climates or indoors, consistent overhead misting or humidification is necessary, which can be labor-intensive to maintain long-term.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Dicksoniaceae
Native Range
Tasmania, Australia
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
pH Range
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A striking prehistoric-looking fern with a dark trunk and large feathery fronds, creating a lush tropical effect. Requires consistent moisture and humid conditions to thrive.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Tasmanian Tree Fern grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Dicksonia antarctica offers year-round structural interest and tropical aesthetic in temperate climates where most tree ferns struggle, making it useful as a specimen plant in shaded woodland gardens. Compared to herbaceous ferns, its woody trunk provides architectural form and longevity, though it grows more slowly and requires more space. It tolerates cooler conditions than many tropical tree ferns, expanding options for humid, sheltered microclimates in cool temperate regions.
Watch out for
Establishment takes several years, and newly planted specimens may decline if moisture or humidity fluctuates significantly during the first season. The plant's large fronds are easily damaged by wind and foot traffic, so site selection in a protected location is important for maintaining appearance. In very dry climates or indoors, consistent overhead misting or humidification is necessary, which can be labor-intensive to maintain long-term.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Dicksoniaceae
Native Range
Tasmania, Australia
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
pH Range
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
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