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Dicksonia youngiae
Bristly Tree Fern
| Create your own Jurassic Park with these majestic, palm-like ferns. No other plant so evokes the mystery of the primeval rainforest. They are particular as to habitat, and need a bit more fussing over than most trees or ferns, but if you meed their demands, they are hardy and long-lasting. Dicksonia antarctica, Tasmanian Tree Fern, may reach 35 to 50 feet tall, with a soft mantle of old fronds up to 2 feet in diameter. Dicksonia squarrosa, Slender Tree Fern, has a very slim trunk and stiff prickly fronds that fall off with age. In their required setting -- rich, well-drained soil, shade and lots of moisture -- they are easy to establish or transplant. Dicksonia antarctica will take full sun as long as it is humid. Most will not tolerate much frost, thought the prickly New Zealand species Dicksonia fibrosa likes it cool, surviving even in Seattle with protection. In periods of dry heat or wind, mist top, trunk and roots frequently. Feed regularly with a half strength solution of bloodmeal or fish emulsion. When new croziers emerge from old growth, trim any dead or damaged fronds. Mulch exposed roots with peat moss. Usually grown from spores, but some, such as Dicksonia antarctica and Dicksonia squarrosa, can be propagated from side shoots at the base. When the young fern is 1 inch wide with a frond over 10 inches long, carefully cut off and pot, transplanting once rooted. |
Soft brown fur covers the base of the lustrous, leathery fronds.
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Attributes - Dicksonia youngiae
Plant Type: Fern
Foliage: Evergreen
Height: 4 ft. to 14 ft.
Width: 12 ft.
Sunlight: Partial Sun, Shade
Climate: Zones 10, 11
Notes: Container Plants, Low Maintenance.
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