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Genus Pteridium (Bracken, Brake)

Pteridium aquilinum Photo/Illustration: C. Colston Burrell

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Common Name: Bracken, Brake

Pteridium are large, coarse ferns with a wide distribution, found on all continents except Antarctica. They grow in virtually every habitat except for deserts. Bracken may form dense thickets and make good groundcovers. They are a known carcinogen.
Noteworthy characteristics: Tough, triangular, deeply divided fronds. Toxic to livestock.

Species, varieties and cultivars for genus Pteridium

Pteridium aquilinum
(Bracken) Be the first to rate this plant

Hardiness Zones:

A native fern with triangular-shaped, stiff, upright fronds that can tolerate dry soil and full sun. Bracken can make very large colonies and are found in a variety of habitats ranging from dry and wet forests to meadows and bogs. They grow up to 4.5 feet tall.