Bird's Foot Cliffbrake (Pellaea mucronata)

Overview

Bird's Foot Cliffbrake (Pellaea mucronata) is a desert fern with distinctive bird's foot-like pinnae. It thrives on dry, rocky slopes in the southwestern US and Mexico.

Taxonomy

Description

Fronds are 15–40 cm long, pinnate, with pinnae divided into 3–5 narrow, mucronate (sharp-pointed) segments resembling a bird's foot. Stipes are dark, wiry. Fronds are leathery, blue-green.

Habitat and Cultivation

Grows on limestone cliffs and rocky outcrops in full sun to part shade. In cultivation, requires excellent drainage, minimal water, and bright light. Ideal for rock gardens, crevices, and xeric collections.