The Australian tree fern, also known as Sphaeropteris cooperi, is a tropical, single-trunked, giant fern that is native to eastern Queensland and northern New South Wales, Australia. It is a member of the Cyatheaceae family and is commonly known as the lacy tree fern, scaly tree fern, or Cooper’s tree fern. This ornamental plant is widely cultivated and used in gardens and public landscaping due to its hardiness and ease of growth.
👀 Overview
The Australian tree fern can reach heights upwards of 50 feet, with individual fronds reaching 10-20 feet in length. The form resembles a martini glass with gracefully arching fronds emerging from a skinny trunk. It is commonly grown as a houseplant or as a tropical container specimen. The fern produces one trunk that is woolly or russet in appearance, and it may attain a diameter of 1 foot.
| 📖 Common name | Australian Tree Fern, Cooper's Tree Fern, Lacy Tree Fern |
| 🔬 Botanical name | Cyathea cooperi |
| 🫴 Care Difficulty level | Moderate |
| ☠️ Toxicity | Non-toxic to pets and humans |
| 💨 Air-purifying Qualities | Moderate |
| 🌱 Soil Type and pH | Well-draining, acidic to neutral |
| ☀️ Sun Exposure | Partial shade to full sun |
| 🍪 Edibility | Not edible |
| 🌴 Plant type | Tree Fern |
| 🍃 Foliage Type | Evergreen |
| 🌿 Color of leaves | Bright to dark green |
| 🌸 Flower color | N/A |
| 💥 Bloom time | N/A |
| 🚀 Growth Speed | Moderate to Fast |
| 📏 Mature Size | Up to 15-20 feet tall |
| 🔄 Life Cycle | Perennial |
| 🌍 Hardiness zones | 9-11 |
| 🗺️ Native area | Australia |
💚 Australian Tree Fern Care
To care for an Australian tree fern, provide it with filtered sunlight, ample humidity, and consistently moist soil. Use a well-draining, loamy soil that is high in nutrients and feed your plant with a liquid fertilizer during the spring and summer. Keep the temperature between 60-80°F (15-27°C) during the day and above 50°F (10°C) at night, and monitor the humidity levels around the plant. Regularly remove any dead or yellowing fronds to maintain the plant’s appearance and overall health.
☀️ Light ☀️
Australian tree ferns prefer bright, indirect light, but they can also tolerate partial shade. Direct sunlight can scorch the fronds, so it is best to avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight. If the plant is not receiving enough light, the fronds may become yellow or brown and drop off. Here are some tips to ensure your Australian tree fern gets the right amount of light:
- Indoor Placement: Place the fern near a window that receives bright, indirect light. If the window receives direct sunlight, filter the light with a sheer curtain or move the plant to a different location.
- Outdoor Placement: Place the fern in a shaded area that receives bright, indirect light. Avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight, as it can scorch the fronds.
- Artificial Light: If you are growing the fern indoors and do not have access to natural light, you can use artificial light to supplement the plant’s light needs. Use fluorescent lights or LED grow lights, and keep them on for 12-16 hours per day.
- Light Duration: Australian tree ferns need 12-16 hours of light per day to thrive. If you are growing the plant indoors, you can use a timer to ensure the plant receives the right amount of light each day.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your Australian tree fern gets the right amount of light to thrive.
💧 Water
Watering is a crucial aspect of Australian tree fern care. These plants require consistently moist soil to thrive, but overwatering can lead to root rot. Here are some tips to ensure your Australian tree fern gets the right amount of water:
- Watering Frequency: Water your Australian tree fern when the top layer of soil begins to feel dry. This could mean watering as often as every one or two days, depending on the plant’s environment and the time of year. During hotter months, you may need to water more frequently to ensure the soil remains consistently moist.
- Watering Technique: When watering your Australian tree fern, avoid watering the crown directly, as this can cause rot. Instead, aim for the trunk of the plant and ensure the soil is consistently moist. You can also mist the fronds during hotter months to help maintain humidity levels.
- Watering Quantity: Water your Australian tree fern thoroughly, ensuring that the soil is evenly moist. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to waterlogging and root rot. If you are unsure whether your plant needs water, check the soil moisture level by sticking your finger into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your Australian tree fern gets the right amount of water to thrive. Remember to monitor the soil moisture level regularly and adjust your watering practices accordingly to prevent overwatering or underwatering.
🪴 Soil
The right soil is essential for the growth and health of Australian tree ferns. These plants prefer well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. Here are some tips to ensure your Australian tree fern has the right soil:
- Soil Type: Australian tree ferns prefer a soil mixture that is rich in organic matter, well-draining, and slightly acidic. A mix of leaf mould, sand, and compost is ideal, as it allows the roots to anchor quickly and provides sufficient moisture retention while the roots take hold.
- Soil Preparation: When planting your Australian tree fern, dig a hole that is about three times wider than the root ball and at the same depth. Enhance the soil in the planting hole by adding organic compost or well-rotted leaf litter to improve its structure and fertility. This helps retain moisture while allowing excess water to drain away.
- Mulching: After planting your Australian tree fern, apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the fern, leaving a small gap around the crown to prevent excessive moisture accumulation. Mulching helps retain soil moisture, suppresses weed growth, and provides insulation.
- Fertilizer: Australian tree ferns thrive with a nutrient-rich diet. Apply a slow-release fertilizer specifically formulated for ferns or use a balanced, organic fertilizer. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can promote excessive frond growth at the expense of the trunk’s development.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your Australian tree fern has the right soil to thrive. Remember to monitor the soil moisture level regularly and adjust your watering practices accordingly to prevent overwatering or underwatering.
🍼 Fertilizer
Proper fertilization is essential for the healthy growth and development of Australian tree ferns. These plants are heavy feeders, and providing them with the right nutrients will help them thrive. Here’s a detailed guide on fertilizing your Australian tree ferns, incorporating information from various sources to provide the best care practices:
- Choose the right fertilizer: Australian tree ferns benefit from regular feeding to support their growth and overall health. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer specifically formulated for ferns. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can promote excessive frond growth at the expense of the trunk’s development.
- Fertilize during the growing season: Feed your Australian tree fern monthly with a liquid fertilizer during the growing season. This will provide a steady supply of nutrients to support its active growth.
- Follow the instructions: Always follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for the correct dosage and application method. Over-fertilizing can lead to nutrient burn and damage the plant.
- Apply in spring and summer: Fertilize your Australian tree ferns in spring and summer when they are actively growing and can best utilize the nutrients.
- Spray on the fronds and trunk: To ensure proper nutrient absorption, spray an all-purpose dilute fertilizer over the fronds and trunk once the plant is established. This foliar feeding method allows the plant to absorb nutrients through its leaves.
- Avoid fertilizing during the first year: To encourage root growth, avoid fertilizing your fern during its first year. Instead, focus on providing it with a well-balanced watering and care routine.
- Monitor the plant’s response: Pay attention to how your Australian tree fern responds to the fertilizer. If you notice excessive frond growth or signs of nutrient burn, adjust your fertilization schedule or dilute the fertilizer further.
- Consider organic alternatives: If you prefer organic gardening methods, you can use a balanced, organic fertilizer specifically formulated for ferns. This will provide the necessary nutrients without the use of synthetic chemicals.
- Choose a balanced N-P-K ratio: Look for a fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio that is balanced, such as 10-10-10 or 14-14-14. This will ensure that your Australian tree fern receives a well-rounded mix of essential nutrients for optimal growth and health.
🌡️ Temperature
Australian tree ferns thrive in warm and humid conditions. They prefer temperatures between 65 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 27 degrees Celsius). Here are some tips to ensure your Australian tree fern gets the right temperature:
- Indoor Placement: Place your Australian tree fern in a bright, sunny room away from direct sunlight. If the fern does receive a few hours of direct sunlight per day, ensure watering is increased to compensate. During hotter months, you may need to use a humidifier to maintain the right humidity levels.
- Outdoor Placement: Australian tree ferns can be grown outdoors in areas with high humidity and very warm temperatures, such as South and Central Florida. In colder areas, the plant should be grown in an area where it is protected from the cold. Moving your tree fern outdoors in the summer will promote growth, but bring the plant back inside when temperatures begin to dip below 60 F (16 C).
- Temperature Monitoring: Monitor the temperature around your Australian tree fern regularly to ensure it stays within the preferred range. If the temperature drops below 60 F (16 C), consider moving the plant to a warmer location or using a space heater to maintain the right temperature.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your Australian tree fern gets the right temperature to thrive. Remember to monitor the temperature regularly and adjust your placement and heating practices accordingly to prevent the plant from being exposed to extreme temperatures.
💦 Humidity
Australian tree ferns thrive in warm and humid environments. They require high humidity levels to keep their fronds healthy and prevent them from drying out. Here are some tips to ensure your Australian tree fern gets the right humidity:
- Humidity Level: Australian tree ferns prefer humidity levels between 50% and 80%. If the air in your home is dry, you can increase humidity levels by using a humidifier, placing a tray of water near the plant, or misting the fronds regularly.
- Indoor Placement: Place your Australian tree fern in a bright, sunny room away from direct sunlight. If the fern does receive a few hours of direct sunlight per day, ensure watering is increased to compensate. During hotter months, you may need to use a humidifier to maintain the right humidity levels.
- Outdoor Placement: Australian tree ferns can be grown outdoors in areas with high humidity and very warm temperatures, such as South and Central Florida. In colder areas, the plant should be grown in an area where it is protected from the cold. Moving your tree fern outdoors in the summer will promote growth, but bring the plant back inside when temperatures begin to dip below 60 F (15.5 C).
By following these tips, you can ensure that your Australian tree fern gets the right humidity to thrive. Remember to monitor the humidity levels regularly and adjust your placement and humidifying practices accordingly to prevent the plant from being exposed to excessively dry air.
📃 Types of Australian Tree Fern
There are several types of Australian tree ferns, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are some of the most common types of Australian tree ferns:
- Cyathea cooperi: Also known as the lacy tree fern, this is the most commonly grown Australian tree fern. It has a single trunk that can reach between 15 and 30 feet tall, and its long, large leaves form a handsome canopy. As old fronds fall off, distinctive coin-shaped spots will form on the trunk.
- Dicksonia antarctica: This is a popular species of tree fern that is native to southeastern Australia. It has a slender trunk that can reach up to 20 feet tall, and its fronds can grow up to 10 feet long. This species is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
- Cyathea australis: This species of tree fern is native to eastern Australia and Tasmania. It has a slender trunk that can reach up to 30 feet tall, and its fronds can grow up to 10 feet long. This species is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
- Cyathea brownii: This is a rare species of tree fern that is native to Lord Howe Island. It has a slender trunk that can reach up to 20 feet tall, and its fronds can grow up to 10 feet long. This species is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
- Cyathea medullaris: Also known as the black tree fern, this species is native to New Zealand. It has a slender trunk that can reach up to 40 feet tall, and its fronds can grow up to 20 feet long. This species is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
By understanding the different types of Australian tree ferns, you can choose the right species for your climate and growing conditions. Remember to research the specific care requirements for your chosen species to ensure it thrives in your care.
🪴 Potting and Repotting Australian Tree Fern
Potting and repotting are essential aspects of Australian tree fern care. These plants require well-draining soil and enough space to accommodate their growth. Here are some tips to ensure your Australian tree fern is potted and repotted correctly:
- Potting: When potting your Australian tree fern, choose a pot that is at least 2 inches wider than the root ball. Use a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter, such as a mix of leaf mould, sand, and compost. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
- Repotting: Australian tree ferns should be repotted annually into a larger pot with fresh soil. This will provide the plant with enough space to accommodate its growth and refresh the soil. Repotting should be done in the spring before the growing season begins.
- Soil Refreshment: When repotting, remove any dead or damaged fronds and gently loosen the roots. Add fresh soil to the bottom of the new pot and place the plant in the center. Fill in the gaps with fresh soil, ensuring the plant is at the same depth as before. Water the plant thoroughly after repotting.
- Mulching: After repotting, apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the fern, leaving a small gap around the crown to prevent excessive moisture accumulation. Mulching helps retain soil moisture, suppresses weed growth, and provides insulation.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your Australian tree fern is potted and repotted correctly. Remember to monitor the plant’s growth and adjust your potting and repotting practices accordingly to ensure the plant has enough space to grow.
✂️ Pruning Australian Tree Fern
Australian tree ferns do not require frequent pruning, but removing dead or damaged fronds can help maintain the plant’s health and aesthetics. Here are some tips for pruning your Australian tree fern:
- Pruning Frequency: Prune your Australian tree fern as needed to remove dead or damaged fronds. This can be done throughout the year, but it is best to do it in the spring before the growing season begins.
- Pruning Technique: Use a sharp, clean pair of pruning shears to make a crisp, one-motion cut of the frond stem 2 to 4 inches above where it attaches to the trunk. Avoid cutting into the trunk or removing too many fronds at once, as this can damage the plant.
- Frond Removal: Remove withered and dead fronds to maintain a neat appearance. Also, remove any fronds that are yellowing or brown, as this can be a sign of disease or pest infestation.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your Australian tree fern is pruned correctly. Remember to monitor the plant’s growth and adjust your pruning practices accordingly to ensure the plant remains healthy and aesthetically pleasing.
🌱 How to Propagate Australian Tree Fern
Australian tree ferns can be propagated from spores, which are found on the undersides of mature fronds. Here’s a detailed guide on propagating Australian tree ferns:
- Collecting Spores: To collect spores, wait until the fronds have matured and developed spores on their undersides. Cut off a mature frond and place it in a paper bag to collect the spores. Shake the bag gently to release the spores.
- Preparing the Soil: Australian tree fern spores require a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter. Use a mix of peat moss, sand, and compost to create the right soil conditions. Sterilize the soil mix by baking it in an oven at 180 degrees Fahrenheit (82 degrees Celsius) for 30 minutes.
- Sowing the Spores: Sow the spores on the surface of the soil mix and cover them with a thin layer of vermiculite. Mist the soil surface with water to keep it moist. Cover the pot with a plastic bag to create a humid environment.
- Germination and Growth: Place the pot in a bright, warm location, away from direct sunlight. The spores will germinate in 2-4 weeks, and the young ferns will begin to grow. Once the ferns have developed several fronds, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
- Division: Australian tree ferns can also be propagated through division. To do this, remove the plant from its pot and gently separate the root ball into two or more sections. Replant each section in its own pot with fresh soil mix.
By following these tips, you can propagate Australian tree ferns from spores or through division. Remember to monitor the plants’ growth and adjust your care practices accordingly to ensure the young ferns thrive.
🐛 Common Pests
Australian tree ferns are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but they can occasionally be affected by mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. Here are some tips to prevent and treat common pests:
- Prevention: The best way to prevent pest infestations is to maintain a healthy plant by providing the right care, including proper watering, fertilization, and pruning. Avoid overwatering, as this can create a humid environment that attracts pests.
- Identification: Check your Australian tree fern regularly for signs of pest infestations, such as yellowing or curling leaves, sticky residue on the leaves, or visible insects. Early detection can help prevent the spread of pests.
- Treatment: If you notice signs of pest infestation, isolate the affected plant to prevent the spread of pests to other plants. Use a solution of neem oil or insecticidal soap to treat the plant, following the instructions on the package. Repeat the treatment as needed until the pests are eliminated.
By following these tips, you can prevent and treat common pests that can affect your Australian tree fern. Remember to monitor your plant regularly and adjust your care practices as needed to ensure it remains healthy and pest-free.
🩺 Common Problems With Australian Tree Fern
Australian tree ferns are generally hardy plants, but they can occasionally experience problems that affect their growth and appearance. Here are some common problems and their solutions:
- Yellowing Leaves: Yellowing leaves can be caused by a variety of factors, including overwatering, underwatering, lack of nutrients, or pests. To address this issue, check the soil moisture level and adjust your watering schedule as needed. Ensure the plant is receiving enough light and nutrients, and treat any pest infestations promptly.
- Leaf Drop: Leaf drop can be caused by overwatering, underwatering, or sudden changes in temperature or humidity. To address this issue, check the soil moisture level and adjust your watering schedule as needed. Ensure the plant is in a stable environment with consistent temperature and humidity levels.
- Root Rot: Root rot can occur when the plant is overwatered or the soil does not drain well. To address this issue, reduce watering frequency and ensure the soil is well-draining. Repot the plant if necessary, using fresh soil mix.
- Pest Infestations: Australian tree ferns can be affected by mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. To address this issue, isolate the affected plant and treat it with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Monitor the plant regularly for signs of pest infestation and treat promptly.
By understanding these common problems and their solutions, you can ensure that your Australian tree fern remains healthy and thriving. Remember to monitor your plant regularly and adjust your care practices as needed to address any issues that arise.
🖼️ Display Ideas
Australian tree ferns are beautiful and exotic plants that can add a touch of tropical elegance to any indoor or outdoor space. Here are some display ideas to showcase your Australian tree fern:
- Patio or Deck: Australian tree ferns thrive in shaded areas with well-draining soil. Place your plant on a patio or deck that receives filtered sunlight or dappled shade. Pair it with other tropical plants, such as bromeliads or orchids, to create a lush and vibrant display.
- Indoor Display: Australian tree ferns can be grown indoors in a bright, humid location, such as a bathroom or sunroom. Place your plant in a decorative pot and pair it with other indoor plants to create a green and inviting display.
- Poolside: Australian tree ferns are a popular choice for poolside landscaping. Place your plant near a pool or small pond where the interesting canopy can be reflected beautifully in the water. Pair it with other tropical plants, such as palms or hibiscus, to create a tropical oasis.
- Understory Planting: Australian tree ferns are often used as understory planting in shaded gardens. Pair your plant with other shade-loving plants, such as hostas or ferns, to create a lush and layered display.
By following these display ideas, you can showcase your Australian tree fern and create a beautiful and inviting space. Remember to adjust your care practices as needed to ensure your plant thrives in its display location.
👍 Pro Tips for Healthy Growth
To ensure the healthy growth of your Australian tree fern, consider the following pro tips:
- Light: Provide your tree fern with filtered sunlight to avoid burning its foliage. A place away from the window in a bright, sunny room also works well. If the fern does receive a few hours of direct sunlight per day, ensure watering is increased to compensate.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water the fern when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid letting the soil completely dry out, as this can lead to stress and leaf drop.
- Soil: Use a well-draining, loamy soil that is high in nutrients. Adding a layer of mulch on top of the soil can provide the needed nutrients and help maintain soil moisture.
- Fertilizer: Feed your Australian tree fern with a liquid fertilizer during the spring and summer. For small and medium-sized ferns, once per month is enough. For large plants, increase feedings to once every two weeks.
- Temperature and Humidity: Australian tree ferns thrive in warm temperatures and high humidity. Aim to keep the temperature between 60-80°F (15-27°C) during the day and above 50°F (10°C) at night. If the humidity in your home is low, consider using a humidifier or placing the fern on a tray filled with water and pebbles to increase moisture levels around the plant.
- Potting and Repotting: Repot your Australian tree fern every 2-3 years, or when it outgrows its current pot. Use a pot that is only slightly larger than the previous one to avoid overpotting, which can lead to waterlogged soil and root rot.
- Pruning: Regularly remove any dead or yellowing fronds to maintain the plant’s appearance and overall health. Use clean, sharp pruning shears to make clean cuts and avoid tearing the fronds.
- Propagation: Australian tree ferns can be propagated through spores or by dividing the plant. Spores can be collected from the undersides of mature fronds and sown in a mixture of peat moss and sand. Dividing the plant involves carefully separating the root ball into smaller sections, each with its own set of fronds and roots.
- Common Pests: Watch out for common pests such as mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. If you notice any signs of infestation, treat the plant with an appropriate insecticidal soap or neem oil solution.
- Common Problems: Australian tree ferns may experience issues such as leaf yellowing, leaf drop, or frond browning. These problems can be caused by improper watering, insufficient light, or low humidity. Adjust the plant’s care routine accordingly to address these issues.
By following these pro tips, you can ensure the healthy growth and long-term success of your Australian tree fern.
❓ FAQ
Australian tree ferns prefer filtered sunlight or partial shade. Direct sunlight can scorch their fronds and cause them to dry out. A place away from the window in a bright, sunny room also works well.
Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water the fern when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid letting the soil completely dry out, as this can lead to stress and leaf drop.
Feed your Australian tree fern with a liquid fertilizer during the spring and summer. For small and medium-sized ferns, once per month is enough. For large plants, increase feedings to once every two weeks.
Australian tree ferns thrive in warm temperatures and high humidity. Aim to keep the temperature between 60-80°F (15-27°C) during the day and above 50°F (10°C) at night. If the humidity in your home is low, consider using a humidifier or placing the fern on a tray filled with water and pebbles to increase moisture levels around the plant.
Australian tree ferns can be propagated through spores or by dividing the plant. Spores can be collected from the undersides of mature fronds and sown in a mixture of peat moss and sand. Dividing the plant involves carefully separating the root ball into smaller sections, each with its own set of fronds and roots.
📝 Final Thoughts
Australian tree ferns are beautiful and exotic plants that can add a touch of tropical elegance to any indoor or outdoor space. By following the care tips outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your Australian tree fern remains healthy and thriving.
Remember to provide your tree fern with filtered sunlight or partial shade, ample humidity, and consistently moist soil. Use a well-draining, loamy soil that is high in nutrients and feed your plant with a liquid fertilizer during the spring and summer. Keep the temperature between 60-80°F (15-27°C) during the day and above 50°F (10°C) at night, and monitor the humidity levels around the plant.
Regularly remove any dead or yellowing fronds to maintain the plant’s appearance and overall health. Repot your Australian tree fern every 2-3 years, or when it outgrows its current pot. Propagate your plant through spores or by dividing the plant, and treat any pest infestations or common problems promptly.
By following these tips and monitoring your plant regularly, you can enjoy the beauty and elegance of your Australian tree fern for years to come.
📚 Further Reading
📗 Learn more about Australian tree ferns
📚 References
📘 Australian Tree Fern – Invasive Species Profile – Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources.
📘 Cyathea Species – Australian National Botanic Gardens.
📘 Australian Tree Fern – Gardening Solutions – University of Florida IFAS Extension.
📘 Publication FP557 – University of Florida IFAS Extension.
