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hard tree fern

If you're searching for a striking, resilient addition to your garden with native New Zealand flair, the hard tree fern might be just what you need. Known for its impressive trunk and lush fronds, the hard tree fern is a favourite for landscapers and home gardeners wanting to bring structure and a prehistoric vibe to shaded spaces. These hardy ferns are not just beautiful—they're tougher than many of their relatives, making them ideal for a range of conditions across New Zealand gardens.

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Podocarpus gracilior (African Fern Pine)

Podocarpus gracilior (Fern Pine) is an elegant evergreen tree valued for its fine textured foliage, graceful form, and versatility in the landscape. Despite its common name, it is not a true pine but offers a similar evergreen presence with a softer and more refined appearance. This attractive tree is ideal for screening, avenues, specimen planting, and large gardens. Well suited to New Zealand conditions, Podocarpus gracilior (Fern Pine) provides year round structure, beauty, and long lasting landscape value.

From $270.40

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Trees
Height: 20.00 m
Spread: 10.00 m
Tolerances: Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy, Wind
Garden uses: Hedging, Parks, Screening, Specimen
Garden styles: Alpine, Coastal, Formal, Mediterranean
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Podocarpus macrophyllus 'Maki' (Fern Pine)

Podocarpus macrophyllus 'Maki' (Fern Pine) is a compact, upright evergreen conifer prized for its dense, dark green foliage and naturally tidy growth habit. It is an outstanding choice for hedging, screening, topiary, and feature planting in New Zealand gardens. Tolerant of pruning and adaptable to a range of growing conditions, Podocarpus macrophyllus 'Maki' (Fern Pine) delivers year round structure, privacy, and elegance with minimal maintenance.

From $192.51

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Shrubs
Height: 3.00 m
Spread: 2.00 m
Tolerances: Hardy
Garden uses: Containers, Hedging, Living areas, Patios, Pool areas, Screening, Topiary
Garden styles: Alpine, Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Formal, Frontyard, Japanese, Mediterranean, Modern
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Magnolia liliiflora Nigra (Magnolia Tree Nigra)

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Ulmus Lobel (Dutch Elm Tree)

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Tabebuia rosea (Pink Poui)

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Magnolia Strawberry Fields (Strawberry Fields Magnolia Tree)

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Magnolia Deryk (Magnolia Tree Deryk)

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A large Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa tree).
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Doodia aspera (Prickly Rasp Fern)

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Cyathea cooperi tree fern.
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Asplenium obtusatum ferns in a shade garden and featuring lush, green fronds.
Asplenium obtusatum (Spleenwort Fern)

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A cluster of Cyathea medullaris (Black Tree Ferns).
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Podocarpus gracilior (African Fern Pine)

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Acacia, Acer, and Albizia, or related Categories - General Garden Fertiliser, Indoor Plants, and Evergreen Shrubs.

Search hard tree fern

What is a Hard Tree Fern?

The hard tree fern is a robust species prized for its upright, fibrous trunk and graceful arching fronds that can grow up to two metres long. Unlike more delicate ferns, the hard tree fern copes well with lower temperatures and variable moisture, adapting to a variety of outdoor settings. Its ability to thrive in partial to full shade makes it a popular choice for creating lush, green understories beneath taller trees or in sheltered corners.

Growing Hard Tree Ferns in New Zealand Gardens

Planting a hard tree fern is a great way to add texture and height to your fernery, woodland garden, or shady border. These ferns prefer well-drained, rich soils with plenty of organic matter and benefit from regular mulching to keep their shallow roots cool and moist. While the hard tree fern can withstand short periods of dryness, it performs best with consistent moisture, especially during the establishment phase. As a bonus, mature specimens are relatively low-maintenance once settled in, requiring only the occasional tidy-up of old fronds.

Landscaping with Other Ferns and Woodland Plants

To achieve a truly layered and diverse fern garden, combine the hard tree fern with smaller, complementary species. The Pellaea rotundifolia (Button Fern) is an excellent underplanting choice, offering compact form and glossy rounded leaflets. Looking for something more dramatic? The Cyathea cooperi (Australian Tree Fern) produces a lacy umbrella of foliage, while Blechnum 'Silver Lady' (Dwarf Tree Fern) brings bright, textural greenery to lower layers.

Don't overlook native varieties such as Asplenium obtusatum (Spleenwort Fern), which adds depth and interest under the canopy. For an exotic companion with feathery foliage, Podocarpus gracilior (African Fern Pine) can also complement tree ferns in larger plantings.

Caring for Your Hard Tree Fern

To keep your hard tree fern healthy, site it in a sheltered spot away from harsh winds. Feed in early spring with a slow-release, balanced fertiliser for best results, and water during extended dry spells. Protect the growing crown from frost using mulch or frost cloth in colder regions. Remove dead fronds in late winter or early spring to keep the plant looking tidy and to reduce the risk of pests or diseases.

Why Choose the Hard Tree Fern?

With its bold silhouette and resilience, the hard tree fern is a must-have for those designing a classic New Zealand bush garden or a cool, shaded retreat. Its architectural form and adaptability mean you can enjoy stunning greenery year-round, whether you’re building a native collection or crafting a tranquil, woodland-inspired haven. Add a hard tree fern to your landscape and enjoy the timeless beauty and subtle drama it brings to any garden setting.

Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

Illustration of plant leaves.
While Coprosma 'Hawera' (Sand Coprosma) and Avocado 'Hass' are household names, Camellia sasanqua 'Paradise Diana', Gelsemium sempervirens, and Quercus palustris are rising stars in the plant world.
–The Plant Company

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