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tree ferns in pots

Tree ferns in pots are a striking way to bring lush, prehistoric greenery into patios, courtyards, and sheltered balconies across New Zealand. Whether you’re short on garden space or seeking a bold architectural statement, potted tree ferns offer the elegance and vibrant foliage of the forest—without the need for a spacious backyard. With careful selection and the right care, these impressive ferns will thrive in containers, offering year-round texture and interest. On this page, discover the best tree fern varieties for pots, practical tips for growing them, and inspiration for combining them with other shade-loving ferns.

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

Asplenium bulbiferum (Hen And Chicken Fern)

5 from 3 customers

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 ability to produce baby ferns (plantlets) along the leaf edges. Ideal for shaded gardens, underplanting, or pots, it thrives in moist, well-drained soil with protection from direct sun and wind.

From $26.15

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type: Ferns
Height: 30 cm
Spread: 30 cm
Tolerances: Shade
Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Living areas, Parks, Paths & Steps, Ponds, Pool areas, Specimen
Garden styles: Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Native, Tropical
Acer 'Mikawa Yatsubusa' specimen tree with lush, green foliage.

Acer palmatum 'Mikawa Yatsubusa'

Acer palmatum 'Mikawa Yatsubusa' is a sought-after dwarf Japanese Maple prized for its dense, layered foliage and elegant form. Its small, overlapping green leaves create a unique, architectural appearance that turns fiery shades of red and orange in autumn.

From $299.95

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Trees
Height: 1.50 m
Spread: 1.00 m
Garden uses: Containers, Living areas, Parks, Specimen
Garden styles: Alpine, Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Rock
tree-and-shrub-fertiliser-
Tree 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
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
Acer shirasawanum 'Autumn Moon' tree in a garden.
Acer shirasawanum 'Autumn Moon'

Acer shirasawanum 'Autumn Moon' is a standout Japanese maple admired for its glowing apricot and orange toned foliage that brings warmth and vibrancy...

From$299.95
sorbus-scarlet-king-
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
5-litre-plant-pots-
5 Litre Plant Pots

5 Litre Plant Pots are a practical choice for growing larger shrubs, perennials, grasses, herbs, and young trees. They provide generous root space to...

From$79.20
Large Jacaranda mimosifolia tree with blue flowers.
Jacaranda mimosifolia (Blue Jacaranda)

Jacaranda mimosifolia, commonly known as the Blue Jacaranda tree, is a tropical-looking tree that is widely planted because of its beautiful and...

From$323.65
plant-pots-
2.5 Litre Plant Pots

2.5 Litre Plant Pots are a practical option for growing shrubs, perennials, grasses, herbs, and other developing plants. They provide ample root...

From$37.44
pb-three-quarter-planter-bags-
Planter Bags 3/4 (Seedling Bags)

PB 3/4 Planter Bags are a practical option for growing and establishing small plants, seedlings, shrubs, and young trees. Made for nursery and...

From$15.47
15-litre-plant-pots-
1.5 Litre Plant Pots

1.5 Litre Plant Pots are a practical choice for growing young shrubs, perennials, grasses, herbs, and other developing plants. They provide useful...

From$27.36
10-litre-plant-pots-
10 Litre Thermoformed Plant Pots

These lightweight pots are a cost effective means for growing on plants. They feature a strong and broad rim, have been UV stabilised for NZ...

From$5.76
3-litre-plant-pots-
3.5 Litre Plant Pots

3.5 Litre Plant Pots are a versatile choice for growing shrubs, perennials, grasses, herbs, and other established plants. They provide generous root...

From$48.96
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
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
palm-tree-fertiliser-1
Palm Tree Fertiliser (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
fruiting-plant-fertiliser-
Fruit Tree Fertiliser (Fruit Tree Fertiliser)

Fruiting plants respond well to fruit tree fertiliser with better quality produce, higher yields, and a much healthier and brighter looking plant...

From$16.95
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$344.95
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
half-litre-plant-pots-
0.5 Litre Plant Pots

0.5 Litre Plant Pots are a practical choice for growing young plants, herbs, seedlings, and smaller ornamentals. Their compact size makes them ideal...

From$23.04
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
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
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
emguard-biodegradable-plant-shelter-
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
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
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
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
jute-tree-tie-1
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
Adiantum cunninghamii ferns with short fronds bearing small, green leaves.
Adiantum cunninghamii (New Zealand Maidenhair Fern)

Adiantum cunninghamii is a graceful NZ native maidenhair fern prized for its finely divided fronds and soft, airy appearance. With delicate leaflets...

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
Adiantum aleuticum ferns growing as a cluster and featuring lush,green foliage.
Adiantum aleuticum (Five-Finger Fern)

Adiantum aleuticum, commonly known as the Western Maidenhair Fern or Five-Finger Fern, carries attractive, soft, mid-green foliage. The new fronds...

OUT OF STOCK
Adiantum hispidulum (Rough Maidenhair Fern) with slender, green fronds.
Adiantum hispidulum (Rough Maidenhair Fern)

Adiantum hispidulum, commonly known as the Rough Maidenhair Fern or Rosy Maidenhair Fern, is a NZ native that features short and showy fronds. Young...

OUT OF STOCK
Asplenium bulbiferum (Hen And Chicken Fern)

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Acer, Asplenium, and Jacaranda, or related Categories - General Garden Fertiliser, Plant pots, and Planter Bags.

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Why Grow Tree Ferns in Pots?

Growing tree ferns in pots has become increasingly popular for both renters and homeowners. Pots provide flexibility to move your plants as needed for optimal light and shelter, and to highlight their beauty as feature specimens near entryways or outdoor entertaining areas. Potted tree ferns also make excellent focal points in shaded corners where little else performs, and they can be underplanted with ferns like Adiantum hispidulum (Rough Maidenhair Fern) for additional lushness.

Best Tree Ferns for Pots

Not all tree ferns are suited to life in a container, but compact or slow-growing species can flourish in large pots with some attention. One standout choice is Blechnum 'Silver Lady' (Dwarf Tree Fern). This tidy, small-scale tree fern is perfect for pots, with graceful fronds and a trunk that slowly develops with age. Its manageable size and resilience make it ideal for courtyards and sheltered decks.

For those seeking a lush, fern-filled container scene, complement your tree fern with textural companions like Davallia solida (Rabbits Foot Fern), Davallia fejeensis  (Rabbits Foot Fern), and Pellaea rotundifolia (Button Fern). These ferns thrive in similar conditions and spill attractively over the edges of large tubs.

Tips for Growing Tree Ferns in Pots

To keep your tree ferns in pots healthy and looking their best, start with a large, stable container—ideally at least 40–50cm across. Use a moisture-retentive potting mix with good drainage and position your pots where they’ll receive dappled shade, sheltered from hot midday sun and drying winds.

Watering is crucial; tree ferns enjoy consistently moist (but not soggy) soil and benefit from occasional misting to keep their fronds lush. Feed regularly with a gentle liquid fertiliser to support leaf growth, and repot every few years or when you see roots circling the pot.

Design Ideas

For a lush, rainforest-inspired display, group your tree ferns in pots with other shade-loving plants. Underplant Blechnum 'Silver Lady' (Dwarf Tree Fern) with low-growing ferns like Pellaea rotundifolia (Button Fern) and fluffy Adiantum hispidulum (Rough Maidenhair Fern) to create verdant layers. Mix in textured foliage from Davallia solida (Rabbits Foot Fern) and Davallia fejeensis  (Rabbits Foot Fern) for extra interest.

Find Your Next Potted Fern

With the right variety and a little care, tree ferns in pots can transform any shaded outdoor space into a lush, tranquil retreat. Explore our full range of ferns online to find all the inspiration and expert advice for your next potted plant success.

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, Gardenia 'Veitchii' and Buxus sempervirens (Boxwood) are crowd-pleasers, but Cupressus ovensii, Cupressus sempervirens 'Stricta' (Pencil Cypress), and Hydrangea 'Leuchtfeuer' are quietly making a name for themselves.
–The Plant Company

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