About

Dictymia brownii is an Australian rhizomatous fern producing long, strap-shaped, undivided fronds from a creeping rhizome. A neat and ornamental fern for a warm, moist, sheltered position or heated greenhouse.

About the genus

Dictymia are rhizomatous ferns from Australia and Southeast Asia producing strap-shaped, undivided fronds from a creeping, scale-covered rhizome. Grown as ornamental ferns in warm, sheltered positions or heated glasshouses.

Growing conditions

SunlightFull shade, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3

Plant details

Plant typeFerns
HabitTufted
FoliageEvergreen
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, Patio and container plants
Native toE Australia

Care notes

CultivationGrow outdoors in a moist but well-drained humus-rich soil. In hot, dry summers water the stem but avoid watering the crown in winter. Will require winter protection in colder areas. See overwintering plants outdoors: wrapping and tree fern cultivation for further advice
PruningDead or damaged fronds may be removed as necessary
PropagationPropagate by sowing spores as soon as ripe
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free outdoors
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free outdoors