Little Aussie Larrikin Dwarf Norfolk Island Tree Fern

Little Aussie Larrikin Dwarf Norfolk Island Tree Fern (Cyathea brownii 'Little Aussie Larrikin') is a compact form of the tallest tropical tree fern, which brings rainforest drama down to a size an ordinary garden can hold. It grows 2 to 4m tall and 1.5 to 2m wide, with long, finely divided fronds almost as long as the plant is tall. It is unusual among tree ferns in that it will stand full sun.

Why you'll love it

• Rainforest drama at garden size. A dwarf form of the tallest tropical tree fern, it gives the same jungle look in a fraction of the space.
• Long, finely divided fronds. Fronds nearly as long as the plant is tall make a lush, arching crown.
• Takes sun as well as shade. Most tree ferns want a rainforest's worth of shade. This one can stand full sun, though it appreciates some shade in the hottest part of the day.
• Suits tropical and fern gardens. It is a natural centrepiece for a tropical bed or a collection of ferns.
• Well-behaved roots. Tree ferns have fibrous, shallow roots rather than the aggressive kind that lift paving, so they sit comfortably near paths.

Where it works best

Tropical and fern gardens. Plant 2m apart as feature specimens and underplant with smaller ferns and shade-loving foliage.

Courtyards and entries. In a sheltered, humid corner it gives height and a lush crown without the bulk of a full-size tree fern.

Beside water features. Humid air and steady moisture suit it, and the fronds reflect well in a pond or pool.

Growing Little Aussie Larrikin Dwarf Norfolk Island Tree Fern in Australia

Position and climate. Warm, humid and frost free: it needs to stay above 6C, with warm weather all year and regular rainfall. It suits tropical and subtropical gardens, and sheltered, frost free spots in warmer temperate ones. Protect it from cold and wind, and give it a little shade during the hottest part of the day.

Soil. Moist, well-drained, nutrient-rich soil, neutral to slightly acid. Plant carefully, keeping the crown of the fern above the soil line.

Water and feed. Mulch, and water regularly until established, usually around 12 weeks. After that, keep it moist through dry periods and water frequently, as mature plants can drink half a litre a day in summer. Add extra organic mulch in spring and autumn.

Pruning. Remove dead brown fronds at the base. Leave the crown alone, because that is where the new fronds come from.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Little Aussie Larrikin Dwarf Norfolk Island Tree Fern as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly. Availability of the tube depends on our grower. When the grower has none it shows as sold out, and you can press the notify button on the page to be emailed the day it is back. A young tree fern arrives as a small tuft of fronds, and the trunk and full height build over years, so plant it with the crown above the soil and be patient.

Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• Palms, ferns and tropical plants
• Ferns for shady areas
• Growing ferns in Australia: light, humidity and placement
• Designing a tropical garden that stays lush

Common questions

How big does it get?

About 2 to 4m tall and 1.5 to 2m wide, which makes it a dwarf next to the standard Norfolk Island tree fern.

Will it grow in full sun?

Yes, which is unusual for a tree fern. It still appreciates some shade during the hottest part of the day, and it needs plenty of water to match the sun.

Can it handle frost?

No. It needs to stay frost free and above 6C, so in cold districts it is not a garden plant.