Bird's Foot Fern (Pteris cretica)

Overview

Bird's Foot Fern (Pteris cretica) is a widely cultivated fern with pinnate fronds divided into narrow, linear pinnae resembling a bird's foot. It is the parent species of many variegated cultivars.

Taxonomy

Description

Fronds are 30–60 cm long, pinnate, with 2–6 pairs of linear pinnae. The terminal pinna is often longer. Stipes are slender, straw-colored. Sori are continuous along the pinna margins under the recurved leaf edge.

Habitat and Cultivation

Native to Europe, Asia, Africa. Adaptable to indoor and outdoor shade. Prefers moist, well-drained soil, high humidity. Many cultivars exist with variegation, crested tips, etc.