Tree Fern

Tree-like fern with a thick mass of roots forming a trunk and big, up to 3m (10ft) long, mid- to dark green fronds. These impressive tree ferns are one of the oldest plants in the world and their fascinating appearance will soon catch the heart of any gardener. They are native to Australia and Tasmania, and as they are very slow growing can take 10 years to grow only 30cm of trunk. They are perfect for adding drama and style to a semi-shady spot, and will happily grow in any soil as long as the trunk is kept moist.Plants may be dispatched without leaf fronds. These will soon grow back.Position: partial to full shadeSoil: humus-rich, neutral to acid soilRate of growth: slow-growingOther features: they are hardy down to -10°C and the foliage is hardy to -2°CHardiness: half hardy Garden care: Water and feed by spraying the whole stem and crown as they absorb their nutrients through the trunk. Protect the crown in winter by removing the fronds after the first frost, then rolling them up into balls and gently push them into the crown where the new fronds emerge. These should be removed again in spring as the new growth begins.
More Information