Australian tree fern is more tree than fern. Usually, when we think of ferns, we picture plants such as painted ferns (Athyrium niponicum), which achieve a mature height of just 18 inches. But in its native habitat, the Australian tree fern grows to 40 feet or more. This tropical plant is easily too large for most indoor growing situations except for the largest of greenhouses.
Keep the soil moist at all times. Australian tree ferns are not drought tolerant and need weekly watering, with high levels of moisture or humidity in dry weather. However, avoid watering the crown directly as this can cause rot. The less shade they get, the more water that they will need.
Although these are shade-loving plants in general, they can also thrive in medium shade to full sun locations, whether exposed or sheltered.
During the growing season, feed with controlled-release fertilizer or biweekly with weak liquid fertilizer. Larger specimens are heavy feeders.
Australian tree ferns can tolerate a variety of soil conditions including acidic soil, sand, loam, and clay, but they prefer a moist soil rich in humus.
Beware of the tiny hairs on the trunks of Australian tree fern, as they can be irritating to the skin
