Dicksonia antarctica

Soft Tree Fern

Soft Tree Fern (Dicksonia antarctica) is an evergreen fern with a stout fibrous trunk and a rosette of arching fronds up to 3m long. Slow-growing yet architectural, it thrives in moist, shaded spots, especially in sheltered Irish gardens. Awarded RHS Award of Garden Merit, it is both pest- and disease-free.

Flowering Months

Jan J

Feb F

Mar M

Apr A

May M

Jun J

Jul J

Aug A

Sep S

Oct O

Nov N

Dec D

Size

Max Height

2.5 m — 4.0 m

Max Spread

2.5 m — 4.0 m

Growth Habit

Forms dense upright tufts or clusters of leaves and stems.

Planting Position

Sunlight i Indicates how much direct sunlight the plant needs each day. Full sun means 6+ hours, part shade is filtered or morning sun, and full shade is little to no direct sun.

Full Shade Part Shade

Aspect i Aspect refers to the direction the planting spot faces (north, south, east or west). It affects light levels, warmth and exposure.

South East West

Exposure i Exposure describes how sheltered or exposed a plant’s position is, particularly to wind and weather.

Sheltered

Hardiness i Hardiness indicates how well a plant tolerates cold conditions outdoors. Higher ratings generally mean greater frost tolerance.

(−5 to +1 °C) Half-hardy

Ideal Soil Conditions

Soil Type i Soil type describes the texture of the soil (clay, sand, loam, chalk). This affects drainage, nutrients and how roots grow.

Loam Sand

Soil Moisture i Soil moisture tells you how wet or dry the soil should be for best growth. Match this to your garden conditions for healthier plants.

Moist but permeable / Free draining

Soil pH i Soil pH measures how acidic or alkaline the soil is. It affects nutrient availability and can impact plant growth.

Acid Neutral

Plant Uses & Merits

Uses

Architectural
Containers
Flower Borders

Merits

Generally disease-free
Generally pest-free
RHS | Award Of Garden Merit

Dicksonia antarctica

Soft Tree Fern

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Dicksonia antarctica

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