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miniature tree fern

Discover the beauty and versatility of the miniature tree fern—a charming choice for New Zealand gardens seeking a lush, subtropical vibe without overwhelming smaller spaces. Perfect for patio pots, shaded courtyards, or woodland borders, the miniature tree fern offers an elegant solution for those craving the graceful look of ferns in a compact form. Whether you're a seasoned plant lover or a beginner gardener, these diminutive tree ferns bring easy-care, evergreen excitement to your landscape. Read on to find out how the miniature tree fern can transform your garden and which varieties are best suited to Aotearoa’s unique climate.

Large Jacaranda mimosifolia tree with blue flowers.

Jacaranda mimosifolia (Blue Jacaranda)

5 from 1 customers

Jacaranda mimosifolia, commonly known as the Blue Jacaranda tree, is a tropical-looking tree that is widely planted because of its beautiful and long-lasting blue flowers. Loose clusters of the deep blue-mauve flowers are borne across the tree through spring and summer.

From $494.05

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Trees
Height: 12.00 m
Spread: 8.00 m
Flowering time: Spring, Summer
Tolerances: Hardy, Wind
Garden uses: Parks, Specimen
Garden styles: Alpine, Japanese, Tropical
daphniphyllum-macropodum-3

Daphniphyllum macropodum

Daphniphyllum macropodum is an impressive evergreen shrub or small tree grown for its lush, glossy green foliage and attractive architectural form. The large leathery leaves provide year round interest and create a tropical appearance without requiring a warm climate.

From $366.25

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Trees
Height: 3.00 m
Spread: 3.00 m
Flowering time: Spring
Garden uses: Living areas, Pool areas, Screening
Garden styles: Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Mediterranean, Modern
podocarpus-macrophyllus-maki-1
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...

From$192.51
Melia azedarach tree.
Melia azedarach (Bead Tree)

Melia azedarach (Bead Tree, White Cedar) is a graceful deciduous tree valued for its attractive fern like foliage, fragrant clusters of lilac...

From$387.55
podocarpus-gracilior-
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...

From$270.40
An Asplenium bulbiferum (Hen and Chicken Fern) growing in a shaded postion and displaying lush, green fronds.
Asplenium bulbiferum (Hen And Chicken Fern)

Asplenium bulbiferum, commonly known as the Hen and Chicken Fern or Pikopiko Fern, is a popular NZ native prized for its lush, arching fronds and...

From$26.15
acer-esk-sunset-
Acer 'Esk Sunset'

Acer 'Esk Sunset' is a stunning deciduous maple prized for its richly variegated foliage with green leaves flushed in pink, cream, and purple...

From$299.95
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Sorbus aucuparia 'Scarlet King'

Sorbus aucuparia 'Scarlet King' is a handsome deciduous tree valued for its attractive fern like foliage, creamy white spring flowers, brilliant...

From$387.55
Albizia julibrissin 'Rosea' pink flowers and lush, green foliage.
Albizia julibrissin 'Rosea'

Albizia julibrissin 'Rosea' (Silk Tree) is a stunning deciduous tree valued for its graceful spreading canopy, fern like foliage, and masses of...

From$183.51
A stunning Albizia julibrissin 'Red Silk' tree with masses of red flowers.
Albizia 'Red Silk'

Albizia 'Red Silk' is a variety of the commonly known Silk Tree, and is grown for its delicate foliage and showy flowers. The fern-like foliage is...

From$344.95
An Acer 'Katsura' specimen tree with orange and green foliage.
Acer 'Katsura'

Acer 'Katsura' is a stunning Japanese maple known for its brilliant apricot orange spring foliage that matures to fresh green before turning vibrant...

From$299.95
A Parrotia persica 'Pendula' specimen tree with pendulous green foliage.
Parrotia persica pendula (Weeping Persian Ironwood)

Parrotia persica 'Pendula', commonly known as the Weeping Persian Ironwood, is a tree grown for its fantastic autumn colours and weeping growth...

From$270.40
tree-and-shrub-fertiliser-
Tree Fertiliser

Using tree fertiliser results in plants having better quality foliage, more profuse flowering, stronger stems, and a much healthier and brighter...

From$16.95
Metrosideros excelsa (Pohutukawa) specimen tree with masses of red flowers in a coastal location.
Metrosideros excelsa (Pōhutukawa)

Metrosideros excelsa, commonly known as Pōhutukawa or the New Zealand Christmas Tree, is a coastal evergreen renowned for its brilliant red flowers...

From$30.29
Dacrydium cupressinum (Rimu) tree juvenile foliage.
Dacrydium cupressinum (Rimu Tree)

Dacrydium cupressinum, commonly known as Rimu or Red Pine, is an iconic and slow-growing tree. The juvenile form features drooping branches densely...

From$99.29
Gardenia 'Buttons' small, white flowers and dark green foliage.
Gardenia 'Buttons'

Gardenia 'Buttons' (Miniature Gardenia) is a charming compact evergreen shrub admired for its intensely fragrant creamy white flowers and glossy dark...

From$18.95
ulmus-lobel-
Ulmus 'Lobel' (Dutch Elm Tree)

Ulmus 'Lobel' is a refined deciduous elm valued for its narrow upright form, dense green foliage, and excellent suitability as an avenue or specimen...

From$557.95
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Tree Guards

Tree Guards provide a simple and effective way to protect young trees from animals, wind, accidental damage, and herbicide spray. They create a...

From$5.00
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Jute Tree Tie

Jute Tree Tie is a natural and flexible option for securing young trees to stakes while they establish. The soft material helps reduce rubbing and...

From$64.67
pb-28-planter-bags-
PB28 Planter Bags (Christmas Tree Bag)

PB28 Planter Bags are a durable and economical option for growing large trees, shrubs, fruit plants, natives, and other mature nursery stock. Their...

From$130.50
Phyllocladus trichomanoides lush green foliage.
Phyllocladus trichomanoides (Celery Pine)

Phyllocladus trichomanoides, commonly called Celery Pine, is a striking New Zealand native tree valued for its unique, celery like foliage and tall...

From$515.35
Liriodendron tulipifera 'Fastigiata' trees with yellow foliage in autumn.
Liriodendron tulipifera 'Fastigiata' (Tulip Tree)

Liriodendron tulipifera fastigiata, also known as the Upright Tulip Tree, is a stunning deciduous tree admired for its narrow, columnar form. It...

From$515.35
pb-60-planter-bags-
PB60 Planter Bags (Bag For Xmas Tree)

PB60 Planter Bags are a strong and practical option for growing large trees, shrubs, fruit plants, natives, and advanced nursery stock. Their...

From$169.50
fruiting-plant-fertiliser-
Fruit Tree Fertiliser

Fruit Tree Fertiliser is specially formulated to support healthy growth, strong root development, and productive fruiting in a wide range of fruit...

From$16.95
cloth-tree-tie-
Cloth Tree Tie

Cloth Tree Ties are a soft, flexible solution for securely supporting young trees and plants while they establish. Made from durable cloth material...

From$9.28
palm-tree-fertiliser-1
Palm Tree Fertiliser

Choosing the correct Palm tree fertiliser is essential for producing better quality foliage, stronger fronds, and a much healthier and brighter...

From$16.95
A large Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa tree).
Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa Tree)

Beilschmiedia tawa, commonly known as the Tawa Tree, is a tall and graceful evergreen native to New Zealand. It is admired for its straight trunk...

From$313.00
Blechnum fraseri fern with lush, green fronds.
Blechnum fraseri (Miniature Tree Fern)

Blechnum fraseri is a distinctive NZ native fern admired for its upright, leathery fronds and strong architectural form. This hardy species thrives...

OUT OF STOCK
Blechnum chambersii fern in a shaded native area.
Blechnum chambersii

Blechnum chambersii (Miniature Tree Fern) is a compact and elegant NZ native fern valued for its lush, arching fronds and tidy, upright habit...

OUT OF STOCK
Cyathea cunninghamii tree ferns.
Cyathea cunninghamii (Slender Tree Fern)

Cyathea cunninghamii, commonly known as the Gully Tree Fern, produces a tall and slender, brown trunk and can grow up to 15 m tall with a spread of 6...

OUT OF STOCK
Stunning Blechnum 'Silver Lady' plants for sale at The Plant Company nursery.
Blechnum 'Silver Lady' (Dwarf Tree Fern)

Blechnum 'Silver Lady' is a graceful, compact fern admired for its soft arching fronds and vibrant green colouring. This refined fern brings elegance...

OUT OF STOCK
Cyathea cooperi tree fern.
Cyathea cooperi (Australian Tree Fern)

Cyathea cooperi, commonly known as the Australian Tree Fern, produces a tall and slender, brown trunk and can grow up to 15 m tall with a spread of 8...

OUT OF STOCK
Jacaranda mimosifolia (Blue Jacaranda)

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Acer, Albizia, and Asplenium, or related Categories - Ground Fern, Evergreen Shrubs, and Deciduous Trees.

Search miniature tree fern

What is a Miniature Tree Fern?

A miniature tree fern typically refers to varieties of ferns that develop a small trunk and maintain a compact stature. Unlike their towering relatives, these ferns fit beautifully in smaller gardens, shady corners, or even indoors in larger containers. Their elegant fronds arch delicately from a neat central base, providing structure, texture, and vibrant greenery all year round.

For those specifically searching for a classic option, the Blechnum fraseri (Miniature Tree Fern) thrives in New Zealand’s mild, moist climates. Its neat size and tolerance for local conditions make it a favourite among home gardeners and landscapers aiming for low-maintenance, high-impact greenery.

Choosing the Right Miniature Tree Fern

When selecting a miniature tree fern, consider where you’ll plant it and the look you want to achieve. Ferns in this category not only fit well in small outdoor spaces but can also be grown in larger decorative pots for patios and indoor environments. The Blechnum fraseri (Miniature Tree Fern) remains the top pick for a genuine miniature tree fern experience, reaching around one metre high, providing just enough trunk for classic tree fern stature without taking over.

Another excellent choice is Blechnum 'Silver Lady' (Dwarf Tree Fern), celebrated for its delicate silver-green fronds and ability to thrive in sheltered courtyards. If you have space for a slightly taller but still slender fern, consider planting the Cyathea cunninghamii (Slender Tree Fern), which offers a similar elegant habit in a more upright form.

How to Grow and Care for Your Miniature Tree Fern

Miniature tree ferns love locations with filtered light and consistent moisture. Ideal spots include the sheltered south side of the house, under established trees, or beside water features. Regular watering is essential, especially during dry spells, as these plants do best in soil that is rich in organic matter and stays evenly moist—but never soggy.

Mulching in spring and autumn will help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Feed your miniature tree fern with a slow-release, organic fertiliser once in spring to support healthy growth. Protect young plants from frost until they establish a trunk—once established, most miniature forms tolerate light frosts.

Create a Lush Fernery

If you’re dreaming of a serene, fern-filled garden, combine your miniature tree fern with other tree ferns for layered texture and an exotic canopy effect. Integrate companions like the striking Cyathea cooperi (Australian Tree Fern) or underplant with flowering feature trees such as Robinia Frisia for a bold, seasonal contrast.

Embrace the miniature tree fern’s unique size and versatility to enhance outdoor living spaces, shaded pathways, balconies, or even indoor atriums. Their sophisticated presence and lush greenery add a tranquil touch to any Kiwi garden.

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.
Sure, Lomandra 'Tanika' and Lomandra Frosty Tops are crowd-pleasers, but Olive 'Ascolano', Helichrysum petiolare (Trailing Dusty Miller), and Orange 'Navelina' are quietly making a name for themselves.
–The Plant Company

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