Description: Dicksonia antarctica, commonly known as the soft tree fern or Tasmanian tree fern, is a species native to eastern Australia, including Tasmania. This remarkable fern is renowned for its impressive size, with fronds that can reach up to 4 meters (13 feet) in length, arching gracefully from a stout, trunk-like stem that can grow up to 15 meters (49 feet) tall. The trunk is covered with a dense layer of fibrous roots, providing both stability and a distinctive appearance. Preferring cool, moist, and shaded environments, Dicksonia antarctica thrives in temperate rainforests and is often found near streams and sheltered gullies. If protected in zone 8 it can tolerate light frosts, making it popular in gardens and landscapes beyond its native range. This species contributes significantly to its ecosystem, providing habitat and food for various wildlife, and plays a crucial role in the understory of forested areas. Zones 8-10 Germination Germinating Dicksonia antarctica seeds requires a careful and patient approach due to their slow and specific growth requirements. Start by sowing the spores on a sterile, well-draining medium, such as a mix of peat and sand, to prevent fungal infections. Maintain a consistently moist environment, using a fine mist spray to avoid displacing the tiny spores. Cover the container with clear plastic or glass to create a humid, greenhouse-like atmosphere, and place it in a warm, shaded location with indirect light. It is crucial to keep the temperature around 20-25°C (68-77°F) for optimal germination. Germination can take several weeks to months, during which time a green film will appear, indicating the development of the prothallus, the first stage of the fern's lifecycle. Once the prothalli are large enough, they will produce tiny fern plants that can be carefully transplanted into individual pots and gradually acclimated to outdoor conditions. Patience and consistent care are essential throughout this process to successfully cultivate Dicksonia antarctica from spores.
Price: 5.79 USD
Location: San Francisco, California
End Time: 2024-07-26T16:47:25.000Z
Shipping Cost: N/A USD
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Item Specifics
Return shipping will be paid by: Buyer
All returns accepted: Returns Accepted
Item must be returned within: 30 Days
Refund will be given as: Money Back
Climate: Marine West Coast, Tropical Wet, Tropical Wet & Dry
Planting Time: 6 Weeks
Common Name: Tree Fern
Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor & Outdoor
Color: Green
Growth Habit: Climbing
Soil Type: Loam, Peat
Brand: Unbranded
Season of Interest: Fall, Spring, Summer, Winter
Soil pH: Neutral
Type: Fern Spores
Life Cycle: Perennial
Watering: Heavy
Genus: Dicksonia
Sunlight: Low Sun, Medium Sun
Features: Evergreen
Cultivating Difficulty: Moderate
Country/Region of Manufacture: United States
