Fernmania wins Environmental Excellence at the 2026 CareSuper Business Excellence Awards, recognising decades of work with Dicksonia antarctica, sustainable nursery practices, and long-term Tasmanian family business commitment.

After four decades working with Dicksonia antarctica, Fernmania has observed clear differences between wild-grown and cultivated tree ferns. From dense ancient trunks to faster, thinner controlled growth, this article explores the Dicksonia antarctica growth cycle and what environment can teach us about these remarkable plants.

Dicksonia antarctica does far more than provide visual appeal. Its fibrous trunk stores moisture, supports mosses, orchids and ferns, creates cool rainforest microclimates, and helps surrounding plant life thrive. Learn why Tasmania’s iconic tree fern is one of nature’s most effective living ecosystems.

Fernmania does not decide when or where clearing happens. Its role is to salvage and relocate Dicksonia antarctica that would otherwise be destroyed, while mainly growing stock on site under licensed and regulated arrangements.