Dicksonia squarrosa
brown tree fern or Wheki

A native of New Zealand this tree fern has as well as a slim graceful trunk, dark veining on the underside of the long featherlike fronds. Perfect for a north facing conservatory or large well lit room. Part of our fascination with the tree ferns is the speedy unfurling of the long fronds as they emerge from the furry centre of the trunk.

Site: A relatively well lit location without any direct sun.

Temp: Average to cool. Does not like to bake.

Water: Well watered, tree ferns can absorb water through their trunks so try not to let this or the crown dry out.

Feeding: A very weak liquid feed can be watered over the leaves and trunk every two weeks or so through the growing season.

Tip: Old fronds can be trimmed back to the trunk to keep a tidy appearance.