Australian Tree Fern (Dicksonia antarctica) – Iconic Shade Tree Fern

Australian Tree Fern

1 Gallon

$19.00

1/5

Australian Tree Fern

Cyathea cooperi, Alsophila australis

A prehistoric tree fern that brings instant rainforest character to shaded gardens.

$19.00

24-hour Money-back Guarantee

Free Delivery Over $199

+1 650-241-8858 (SMS ok)

coco-plant

Bay Area–Based Nursery

We specialize in plants grown and delivered in their original pots and soil.
Because of their size and weight, our plants are not suitable for long-distance shipping and are delivered locally to ensure health and quality.

While delivery is limited to our local service area, we’re happy to support garden design and plant selection remotely.

For local plant professionals, we’re always glad to connect and explore ways to support your customers.

The Australian Tree Fern is one of the most iconic and ancient plants available for modern landscapes. Native to the cool, moist rainforests of Australia and Tasmania, this remarkable tree fern features a fibrous trunk topped with a dramatic crown of arching, feathery fronds.

Unlike fast-growing tropical plants, Australian Tree Fern grows slowly and steadily, developing character and presence over decades. Its architectural form makes it a natural focal point in shaded gardens, courtyards, and woodland settings—especially in mild coastal climates like the San Francisco Bay Area.

Why gardeners and designers love it:

Creates an instant “rainforest” or botanical garden atmosphere
Thrives in shade where many trees struggle
Evergreen foliage provides year-round structure
Exceptionally long-lived and low maintenance once established
Ideal for high-end residential and commercial landscapes

With proper moisture and protection from harsh sun and drying winds, Australian Tree Fern becomes a timeless landscape investment—often passed down from one generation to the next.

Knowing how we measure the size?

When browsing our plants, you may notice size terms such as Gallon, Multi, or Stand. These describe how a plant is grown, containerized, or structured at the time of sale — not just its height. Understanding these terms will help you choose the right plant for your space and expectations.

🌱 Gallon Size (Container Size)

Gallon refers to the size of the nursery container the plant is currently growing in (e.g. 1 Gallon, 5 Gallon, 15 Gallon).

A larger gallon size generally means:
- A more established root system
- A sturdier plant
- Faster visual impact after planting
Example:
- 5 Gallon: Ideal for residential gardens, easy to handle, good balance of value and maturity
- 15 Gallon: More mature, provides quicker results in the landscape

Note: Gallon size does not guarantee a specific height, as growth varies by species.

🌳 Multi (Multi-Trunk / Multi-Branch Form)

Multi indicates the plant has multiple trunks or main stems growing from the base.

Commonly used for:
- Ornamental trees
- Feature plants
- Japanese maples, olives, crepe myrtles, etc.
Why choose Multi:
- Fuller, more sculptural appearance
- Strong visual presence even at younger ages
- Popular for design-focused landscapes

🌲 Stand (Single-Trunk / Standard Form)

Stand (short for Standard) refers to a single, dominant trunk with a raised or naturally formed canopy.

Commonly used for:
- Shade trees
- Street trees
- Orchard and structural plantings
Why choose Stand:
- Clean, classic tree form
- Easier clearance for walkways and lawns
- Preferred for long-term structure and uniformity

🌿 Choosing the Right Size

If you want instant impact → larger Gallon, Multi form
If you want long-term structure → Stand form
If you want flexibility and value → mid-size Gallon containers

If you’re unsure which size or form fits your project, our team is happy to help you select the best option based on your space, timeline, and design goals.

Features:Foliage: Lacy, deep green pinnate fronds up to 10 ft long; new fronds emerge tightly coiled with golden hairs,Trunk: Slender fibrous trunk covered in persistent fuzzy brown leaf bases,Growth Habit: Elegant umbrella-like crown
Mature Height: 12-20 ft
Mature Width: 6-8 ft
Growth Rate: Fast (can grow 2-4 ft per year in ideal conditions)
Light Needs: Partial sun to dappled shade
Key Advantages:Dramatic tropical appearance,Fastest growing tree fern species,Deer resistant,Tolerates coastal conditions,Adds vertical interest
Preferred Environment:Outdoor Use: Urban oasis gardens, coastal landscapes, woodland edges,Indoor Use: Large conservatories or atrium spaces

Is Australian Tree Fern suitable for the Bay Area?
Yes. It performs exceptionally well in coastal and mild Bay Area microclimates with adequate moisture and shade.

How fast does it grow?
Growth is slow—typically a few inches of trunk per year—but this contributes to its longevity and value.

Can it grow in containers?
Yes, especially when young, but mature specimens perform best planted in the ground.

Does it lose its leaves in winter?
No. It is evergreen in suitable climates.