Wheki Dicksonia squarrosa
ABOUT
The plant known as the rough tree fern presents itself with a robust and fibrous trunk, often adorned with a skirt of old, brown fronds that hang down as they die but remain attached. Atop the trunk sits a crown of fresh, green fronds that are roughly textured. The fronds are long and divided, giving them a feathery appearance from a distance. Each leaflet on the fronds is serrated, adding to the rough texture that characterizes the plant. The overall look of the rough tree fern is that of a forest umbrella, with its lush canopy of greenery creating a striking contrast against the brown, skirt-like base of dead foliage. The plants exhibit a prehistoric charm, reminiscent of the dense undergrowth one might encounter in a lush, primeval woodland.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Dicksoniaceae
Synonyms
Rough Tree Fern, Squarrosa, Wheki, New Zealand Tree Fern
Common names
Balantium squarrosum, Dicksonia billardierei, Dicksonia billardieri, Dicksonia antarctica var. squarrosa, Dicksonia squarrosa var. billardierei.
ToxicityTo humans
The rough tree fern is not commonly known for being toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning or harmful effects from ingestion of this plant. However, it's always advisable to exercise caution and avoid consuming parts of ornamental plants not typically recognized as edible.
To pets
The rough tree fern is not typically toxic to pets either. Similar to its effects on humans, there is no widespread evidence to suggest that pets would experience toxicity from ingesting this plant. Nevertheless, it is generally advisable to prevent pets from ingesting plants that are not part of their normal diet to avoid potential gastrointestinal upset or other unexpected reactions.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Height
10 feet (3 meters)
Spread
6 feet (1.8 meters)
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Australasia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ecosystem support: Provides habitat for a variety of wildlife, including insects and birds, which may use it for shelter, nesting, or feeding.
- Cultural significance: May hold importance for indigenous cultures or local traditions, potentially used in rituals or as a symbol of the natural environment.
- Landscape aesthetics: Adds natural beauty and greenery to gardens and parks, enhancing visual appeal and contributing to a peaceful atmosphere.
- Soil conservation: Helps prevent soil erosion with its extensive root system, thus conserving the topsoil and maintaining land integrity.
- Carbon sequestration: Absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gases and combating climate change.
- Education and research: Serves as a subject for botanical study, helping scientists and students to learn more about fern species and their roles in ecosystems.
- Conservation of biodiversity: Supports biodiversity by being part of a complex ecological network, contributing to the overall health and balance of ecosystems.
- Recreational value: Can be found in natural reserves and parks, where people can enjoy hiking, bird watching, and immersing themselves in nature.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Wheki (Dicksonia squarrosa) trunks have been used as the bases for cultivating other plants such as orchids, which benefit from the moist, spongy texture of the tree fern's mass.
- The fibrous trunk of Wheki can serve as a natural insulation material in traditional and eco-friendly building practices due to its thermal properties.
- Wheki fibers are sometimes used in crafting for making items like baskets and mats, capitalizing on its durability and texture.
- Landscape design can incorporate living Wheki as natural sculpture elements owing to their unique form and presence in gardens.
- The dead fronds of Wheki are used as mulch in gardens to retain moisture in the soil and suppress weeds.
- In New Zealand, Wheki are sometimes incorporated into living fences or shelter belts, as they can tolerate some wind and soil types.
- The tree fern's core, when decayed, can be used as a medium for growing mushrooms, which thrive in the nutritious, moisture-rich environment.
- In some cultures, segments of Wheki trunk are used as food for grazing animals like sheep and cattle when other feed is scarce.
- The sturdy trunks of Wheki have been traditionally used to create palisades or fortifications in Māori pā (fortified villages).
- Segments of Wheki trunk have been utilized in the creation of artistic carvings or as canvases for indigenous artwork due to their texture and ease of carving.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Wheki (Dicksonia squarrosa) is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Wheki (Dicksonia squarrosa) is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Also known as the wheki or rough tree fern, Dicksonia squarrosa can grow in difficult conditions, symbolizing one’s ability to endure and thrive despite challenges.
- Longevity: With the potential to live for hundreds of years, the wheki represents a long life and persistence over time.
- Protection: The wheki's robust fronds have been known to provide shelter in the forest; it symbolizes safety and guardianship.
- Antiquity: Since the wheki is part of the ancient fern family that has existed for millions of years, it symbolizes a connection to the past and ancestral wisdom.
- Regeneration: The wheki can regenerate from damage and grow new fronds, which symbolizes renewal and the ability to recover from setbacks.
WaterThe New Zealand Tree Fern requires consistent moisture and should be watered thoroughly whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. This could be approximately every week, but the frequency may vary depending on humidity levels and temperature. When watering, aim to provide enough water to soak the soil, which might be around 1 to 2 gallons for a mature plant in a large pot. It’s important not to let the fern dry out completely, so check the soil moisture regularly. During the growing season in spring and summer, the fern may need more frequent watering, while in the cooler months, it can be less frequent.
LightThe New Zealand Tree Fern prefers bright, indirect light or dappled sunlight. It should be placed in a spot where it can receive morning sun and afternoon shade, or beneath a canopy that filters the sunlight. Direct afternoon sun can be too harsh and may scorch the fronds, so avoid placing it in full sun, especially in hot climates.
TemperatureThe New Zealand Tree Fern thrives in temperatures between 50°F and 70°F. It can tolerate a minimum temperature of around 40°F, but should not be exposed to temperatures below this as it can damage the plant. The ideal temperature range means it often does well in typical indoor environments, and if kept outdoors, it prefers a temperate climate without extreme cold or heat.
PruningPrune the New Zealand Tree Fern to remove any dead or damaged fronds, which helps to maintain its appearance and health. The best time for pruning is in the spring, just before new growth begins. Pruning can be done as needed throughout the year, but always with caution to avoid cutting into the trunk or healthy fronds. Consistent pruning is not typically required for this fern, but periodic cleaning up of the old fronds can encourage healthier growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Wheki fern prefers a soil mix that's rich in organic matter and well-draining, with a pH of slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5-7). A mix of loam, peat, and sand in equal parts is ideal. Regular checks to maintain the proper pH and ensuring the mix is not too compacted will promote healthy growth.
RepottingWheki ferns don't need frequent repotting and can be done every 2-3 years. They have a slow growth rate, and repotting should be done carefully to avoid damaging the root system. Spring or early summer is the best time for repotting to allow the plant to establish before cooler temperatures.
Humidity & MistingWheki fern thrives in high humidity levels, ideally ranging from 75% to 88%. In drier environments, increasing humidity through misting or a humidifier is beneficial. They are best suited to environments that can maintain consistent humidity without frequent fluctuations.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep Wheki fern in bright, indirect light and high humidity.
Outdoor
Place Wheki fern in dappled light with ample moisture and shelter.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleThe New Zealand Tree Fern (Dicksonia squarrosa) begins its life cycle as a single spore, which when conditions are favorable, germinates to form a tiny, heart-shaped gametophyte. The gametophyte houses both male and female reproductive organs and, upon reaching maturity, will produce sperm and eggs. Fertilization occurs when water allows sperm to swim to the eggs, resulting in the formation of a zygote that grows into the young sporophyte. This young fern then develops into a mature sporophyte with a tall, woody trunk and a crown of arching, green fronds. As the sporophyte matures, it produces spores on the undersides of its fronds in structures called sporangia, often clustered in sori, completing its reproductive cycle. The plant's life cycle is characteristically slow, and it may take several years for a spore to develop into a mature, spore-producing individual.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-summer
The New Zealand Tree Fern, or Dicksonia squarrosa, can be propagated mainly through spores which are generally sown in the warm, moist conditions of late spring or summer. This spore propagation process, akin to sowing seeds, involves collecting the spores from the underside of mature fern fronds. Once collected, the spores are scattered onto the surface of a sterilized, free-draining propagation mix. The mixture should be kept moist and covered with a plastic wrap to maintain humidity. It can take several weeks to months for spores to germinate, and they require careful monitoring for fungal growth or drying out, which can be detrimental to their development. Once sporelings are large enough to handle, they are pricked out and grown on in individual pots.