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rough tree fern

Are you searching for the rough tree fern to introduce lush, prehistoric beauty to your garden? This unique fern features a tall, rugged trunk with vibrant, arching fronds that create dense, green canopies. Ideal for shaded areas, damp woodland gardens, and tropical landscaping, rough tree ferns are highly prized by New Zealand gardeners for their resilience and striking appearance. Whether you’re drawn to their architectural structure or their ability to thrive in sheltered spots, rough tree ferns are a popular choice for transforming spaces with texture and greenery.

podocarpus-gracilior-

Podocarpus gracilior (African Fern Pine)

Podocarpus gracilior, commonly known as the African Fern Pine, Fern Podocarpus, carries soft, weeping, deep green foliage held on rigid branches. It typically grows to 20 m tall and 10 m wide but can easily be contained with trimming. Podocarpus gracilior makes a lovely shade tree, specimen, screen, or hedge. It also suits being included in a mixed planting in a large garden and or being used in an avenue planting.

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: Avenues, Hedging, Parks, Screening, Specimen
Garden styles: Alpine, Coastal, Formal, Mediterranean
podocarpus-macrophyllus-maki-1

Podocarpus Maki (Fern Pine)

Podocarpus macrophyllus Maki, commonly known as Shrubby Yew Tree, Chinese Podocarpus, or Shrubby Podocarpus, produces dense, dark green leaves, with new foliage emerging lime green. It grows slowly with a columnar shape to about 3 m tall and 2 m wide, and can be trimmed as necessary. Podocarpus Maki is commonly included in a mixed planting, trimmed into a hedge, maintained in a container, used for topiary and bonsai, included in pool and Japanese gardens, or planted to border an entrance.

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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Search rough tree fern

What Makes the Rough Tree Fern Special?

The rough tree fern, distinguished by its coarse trunk, is native to Australasian forests and is celebrated for its impressive size and dramatic foliage. Younger fronds unfurl in intricate spirals, adding dynamic movement to your landscape. This fern prefers consistently moist, humus-rich soil and protection from harsh winds, making it perfect for spots where many typical nitrogen-fixers won’t thrive. In New Zealand gardens, rough tree ferns serve as a striking focal point and create habitat for native birds and insects. When properly cared for, these plants offer decades of evergreen splendor.

How to Grow and Care for Rough Tree Ferns

Planting a rough tree fern in your garden is easy and rewarding. Simply choose a shaded or semi-shaded location with well-draining soil, enriched with organic matter. Mulch generously around the trunk—but keep mulch away from the crown—to help retain moisture. Regular watering is essential, especially during dry spells. Rough tree ferns respond well to periodic feeding with slow-release, balanced fertiliser. While these ferns tolerate light frosts, they’ll benefit from protection in colder regions. For best results, avoid direct afternoon sun and ensure young plants are sheltered from strong winds.

Landscaping Ideas with Rough Tree Ferns

Rough tree ferns bring bold, vertical lines and dramatic foliage to garden spaces. Use them as specimen plants tucked among native shrubs and groundcovers for a natural, New Zealand bush-inspired look. Pairing rough tree ferns with other shade lovers—such as Adiantum hispidulum (Rough Maidenhair Fern), Doodia australis (Rasp Fern), or the elegant Cyathea cunninghamii (Slender Tree Fern)—creates layered interest and a lush, textured understorey. Those seeking a more exotic look might combine rough tree ferns with Cyathea cooperi (Australian Tree Fern) or even trees like the Podocarpus gracilior (African Fern Pine) for variety and added foliage colour.

Where to Find the Rough Tree Fern in New Zealand

If you’re on the lookout for the rough tree fern to add to your plant collection, explore our fern selection for expertly grown specimens and complementary shade plants. Our nursery specialises in healthy ferns and tree ferns suited to New Zealand conditions. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a passionate home gardener, the rough tree fern will anchor your green space, bringing mature beauty and a touch of the wild forest to your home.

Ready to bring home the rough tree fern? Discover our range of ferns and companion plants now for a garden that’s lush, layered, and uniquely yours.


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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.

Our garden favourites Chlorophytum comosum variegatum (Spider Plant) and Ficus Black Knight get lots of love, but don’t miss out on a few lesser-known delights: Ophiopogon planiscapus, Alstroemeria Summer Holiday (Peruvian Lily), and Betula platyphylla Japonica.
–The Plant Company

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