The Brazilian Tree Fern, Dicksonia sellowiana, is a captivating addition to any garden or indoor space. Its unique architectural form and lush foliage are eye-catching, making it a desirable specimen. This fern adds an exotic touch. It brings tropical beauty to any environment.
Key Characteristics of the Brazilian Tree Fern
The Brazilian Tree Fern has a distinctive, fibrous trunk, known as a caudex, reaching 15 to 20 feet in its natural habitat. This caudex is a densely packed rhizome of old frond bases and aerial roots, providing support. Large, arching fronds emerge from the crown, forming a lush, umbrella-like canopy spanning 6 to 10 feet wide, with a finely textured appearance.
Native to humid, subtropical and tropical forests of Brazil, Central America, Ecuador, and Peru, Dicksonia sellowiana thrives in consistently moist and shaded conditions. It grows slowly upward. New fronds unfurl from the top, while older ones senesce and contribute to trunk development. This distinguishes it from other ferns.
Essential Care for Brazilian Tree Ferns
Light
Brazilian Tree Ferns prefer environments mimicking their native understory habitat, with filtered or indirect light. Direct, intense sunlight, especially midday, can scorch fronds, causing browning and decline. Dappled shade all day or morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal. Insufficient light results in leggy growth and reduced frond development.
Water
Consistent moisture is important for Dicksonia sellowiana, as these ferns are sensitive to drought. The caudex, of roots and organic matter, absorbs water, requiring consistent moisture for the caudex itself, not just the soil. Water frequently to prevent soil from drying out, daily during warm, dry periods. Under-watering causes wilting or crispy frond tips; soggy soil leads to root rot.
Humidity
High humidity is important for the Brazilian Tree Fern, reflecting its tropical origins. Levels above 60% prevent frond desiccation and maintain foliage. In dry settings, misting fronds and caudex, using a humidifier, or a pebble tray increases localized humidity. Grouping with other plants creates a more humid microclimate.
Soil
A well-draining, humus-rich, slightly acidic medium is ideal for the Brazilian Tree Fern. A suitable soil mix includes peat moss, composted bark, perlite, and coarse sand for moisture retention and drainage. A pH range between 5.5 and 6.5 is preferred for the slightly acidic conditions these ferns favor. Heavy, compacted soils should be avoided to prevent waterlogging and root issues.
Temperature
Brazilian Tree Ferns prefer moderate temperatures, between 60°F and 75°F (15°C to 24°C). They are sensitive to extreme temperature fluctuations, especially cold, and are not tolerant of frost. Prolonged exposure to temperatures below 40°F (4°C) can cause damage or be fatal. Similarly, sustained temperatures above 85°F (29°C), especially with low humidity, can stress the fern, leading to frond browning.
Fertilization
Brazilian Tree Ferns are not heavy feeders, requiring minimal fertilization. If grown in a rich, organic soil mix, they may not need supplemental feeding for long periods. When fertilization is necessary, a balanced, liquid fertilizer diluted to half or quarter strength is applied every 4-6 weeks during spring and summer. Applying fertilizer directly to the caudex or crown is beneficial, mimicking natural nutrient distribution.
Optimal Growing Environments and Placement
The Brazilian Tree Fern can be cultivated both indoors and outdoors, depending on climate and conditions. Outdoors, it thrives in USDA hardiness zones 9-11, where temperatures rarely freeze. In these zones, it can be a landscape specimen, often planted in shaded garden beds or near water features for humidity. Protection from strong winds is beneficial, as gusts can damage fronds.
For indoor cultivation, a location with bright, indirect light is important (e.g., near an east-facing window or away from south/west-facing windows). Its mature size (fronds spreading up to 10 feet) requires ample space. Consider its eventual height and spread when choosing a permanent spot. Large containers are suitable for indoor growth, for root development and stability.
Common Challenges and Maintenance Tips
Brazilian Tree Ferns, while robust, can have issues from environmental imbalances. Browning frond tips are a common symptom of insufficient humidity or under-watering, requiring increased misting or watering adjustment. Yellowing fronds, particularly older ones, may signal a nutrient deficiency, addressed with diluted liquid fertilizer. If newer fronds are yellowing, it may indicate overwatering or poor drainage.
Pest infestations are uncommon but can occur; spider mites and scale insects are concerns. Regular inspection of the fronds, especially the undersides, helps detect pests early. A spray of insecticidal soap or neem oil manages most infestations, applied per instructions. Prune by removing dead or damaged fronds at their base to maintain aesthetics and direct energy to new growth. Ensure clean pruning tools to prevent disease.