Australian tree fern
Sphaeropteris cooperi
RHS AGM 2017
USDA zones8 to 11
SunHandles full sun or partial sun or full shade
WaterHandles moderate to moist soil
Size15 to 20 feet tall10 to 12 feet wide
- Growth rate
- Rapid
- Habit
- Arching
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer, autumn, winter
- Foliage color
- Green
- Soil types
- Sand, loam
- Soil pH
- Acid, neutral
Garden uses
Notes
Australian tree fern (Sphaeropteris cooperi) is a fern for borders, containers, specimen plantings, and shade gardens. It is hardy to USDA zone 8, or down to 10°F (-12°C). This plant likes full sun to full shade and average to moist, sandy or loamy soil. It grows fast and reaches 15 to 20 feet tall, with arching green fronds all year. It is not a favorite of deer, though hungry deer will eat almost anything. Give it room to spread.
Pairs well with New Zealand flax, Coralbells, and Azalea.
Native range
Oceania.