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Conservatory GreenhouseFerns

Alsophila australis

Australian tree fern

A tree fern with a terminal cluster of spreading fronds on a stem clothed with persistent frond bases that are covered with brown scales

Other common names
hill tree-fern
rough tree fern
Synonyms
Cyathea australis
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Size
Ultimate height
2.5–4 metres
Time to ultimate height
20–50 years
Ultimate spread
2.5–4 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Brown Green
Summer Brown Green
Autumn Brown Green
Winter Brown Green
Position
  • Partial shade
Aspect

South–facing or East–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H2
Botanical details
Family
Cyatheaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Genus

A genus of tree ferns, native to the tropics and subtropics, with upright stems and large, dark green fronds on top of the stems

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Eastern Australia

How to grow

Cultivation

In areas prone to frost, grow in a container under glass with a minimum winter temperature of 10°C (50F). The plant may be placed outside during the summer in a sheltered and partially shaded spot. It requires a moist but well-drained humus-rich soil; in hot, dry summers water the stem as well as the soil, but avoid watering the crown in winter. Apply liquid fertiliser monthly during the growing season. Will grow without winter protection only in milder areas. See tree fern cultivation for further advice

Propagation

Propagate by sowing spores as soon as ripe

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Architectural
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

Dead or damaged fronds may be removed as necessary

Pests

Generally pest-free outdoors

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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