Dicksonia squarrosa
The whekī ponga (Dicksonia squarrosa) is a common tree fern in New Zealand forests. Learn more about New Zealand ferns and their habitats.
Image credit: Whekī (Dicksonia squarrosa). Wikipedia
Scientific Name | Dicksonia squarrosa |
---|---|
Height | 4–6 m (occasionally up to 10 m) |
Spread | 2–3 m |
Water Needs | Moderate to high; keep soil consistently moist |
Light | Dappled to deep shade |
Frost Tolerance | Moderate; tolerates light frosts when established |
Salt Tolerance | Low; does not tolerate salt spray |
Growth Rate | Moderate to fast |
Lifespan | Long-lived (decades) |
Whekī is native to the forests of New Zealand, where it thrives in cool, moist, sheltered environments. It is found throughout the North Island and in the northern and western parts of the South Island. It prefers areas with consistent moisture, protection from strong winds, and moderate temperatures.
City | Suitability |
---|---|
Whangārei | Ideal |
Auckland | Ideal |
Hamilton | Ideal |
Tauranga | Ideal |
Rotorua | Ideal |
Gisborne | Moderate |
New Plymouth | Ideal |
Napier | Moderate |
Whanganui | Ideal |
Palmerston North | Ideal |
Wellington | Ideal |
Nelson | Ideal |
Christchurch | Moderate |
Dunedin | Moderate |
Invercargill | Challenging |
Whekī performs best in the following soil conditions:
This tree fern prefers shaded conditions:
Whekī has moderate to high water needs:
Whekī has the following temperature preferences:
Whekī has moderate wind tolerance:
Understanding Whekī's growth habit:
Whekī (Dicksonia squarrosa) requires little pruning. Remove dead or damaged fronds at the base to maintain a tidy appearance and encourage healthy new growth. Avoid cutting into the trunk, as this can damage the plant. Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new fronds emerge.
Whekī (Dicksonia squarrosa) prefers moist, shaded environments and thrives in rich, well-draining soil. When planting, ensure the trunk base is just above soil level. Water regularly, especially during dry periods, and mulch to retain moisture. Avoid direct sun and strong winds, which can damage fronds. Whekī is ideal for forest gardens and shaded borders.
The most reliable method for home gardeners:
For those wanting a challenge:
For relocating mature specimens:
Whekī (Dicksonia squarrosa) was used by Māori for its fibrous trunk, which provided material for building and insulation. The plant is a common feature in New Zealand forests and is valued for its ecological role in providing habitat and moisture retention.
Whekī (Dicksonia squarrosa) is generally hardy but can be affected by scale insects and slugs, which may damage young fronds. Fungal infections are rare but can occur in overly wet conditions. Remove affected fronds and ensure good air circulation to prevent problems.
Create a dramatic night garden feature by uplighting Whekī trunks with low-voltage garden lights. The black, textured trunks create striking silhouettes when illuminated from below, while the undersides of the fronds catch the light to create a canopy effect. This not only showcases the distinctive architectural form of these tree ferns after dark but also adds depth and dimension to evening garden spaces. Use warm-toned lights for a natural effect, and position them to highlight the contrast between the dark trunks and feathery fronds.
Whekī has been used in traditional Māori medicine and for garden design.
Learn more about the cultural significance of native trees in Cultural Plants.