Dicksonia antarctica Tree fern (Dicksoniaceae) Evergreen fern

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Dicksonia antarctica
Tree fern
Evergreen fern
(1 Page of 5)

The Dicksonia antarctica plant species is found in Australia - New South Wales, Tasmania, Victoria. It is a member of the Dicksoniaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Tree fern.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Dicksonia antarctica
Common Name:  Tree fern
Family:  Dicksoniaceae
Author:  Labill.

Known Hazards:  Although we have found no reports of toxicity for this species, a number of ferns contain carcinogens so some caution is advisable[200]. Many ferns also contain thiaminase, an enzyme that robs the body of its vitamin B complex. In small quantities this enzyme will do no harm to people eating an adequate diet that is rich in vitamin B, though large quantities can cause severe health problems. The enzyme is destroyed by heat or thorough drying, so cooking the plant will remove the thiaminase[172].

Mature Height:  9   Mature Width:  4

Habitat:  Damp sheltered woodland slopes and moist gullies[144].

Propagation Notes: Spores - can be sown at any time in a warm greenhouse. Surface sow and enclose the pot in a plastic bag in order to keep it moist. Place in light shade. Germinates in 1 - 3 months at 20°c. Prick out small clumps of plants when they are large enough to handle and grow on in a shaded part of the greenhouse for at least the first 2 years. Plant out in late spring after the last expected frosts. The spores can be stored dry for up to 10 years[200].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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