Dicksonia sellowiana, commonly known as Xaxim or Brazilian Tree Fern, is an evergreen fern native to Mexico, Central and South America. This species thrives in humid, shaded areas of subtropical and temperate forests, often on steep slopes and along stream banks where moisture is abundant. It can reach over 10 meters (33 feet) in height, with an erect and cylindrical trunk topped by a crown of arching fronds that are bipinnate and can grow up to 2 meters (6 feet 7 inches) long. The fronds emerge in a rosette from the top of the trunk, creating a lush, tropical appearance.

Xaxim is valued for its striking architectural form and lush greenery, making it a popular choice for creating a tropical ambiance in gardens. It is also used in the horticultural industry as a substrate for other plants due to its fibrous trunk material. In cultivation, it requires consistently moist soil and thrives in part shade to full shade, though it can tolerate full sun in cooler, moist climates. It is best suited for soils with medium to fast drainage. Gardeners should be aware that Dicksonia sellowiana is slow-growing and sensitive to cold temperatures. Due to overharvesting for horticultural use and habitat destruction, it is considered at risk of extinction in the wild, and its trade is regulated.CC BY-SA 4.0