Pteridium aquilinum: Bracken Fern

Bracken – Aggressive Native Fern

Pteridium aquilinum is a native fern with triangular, stiff, upright fronds tolerating dry soil and full sun. Forms large colonies in diverse habitats (dry/wet forests, meadows, bogs). Grows up to 4.5 feet tall. Poisonous to livestock; deep rhizomes survive fire.

Noteworthy

• Native, poisonous to livestock
• Tolerates full sun and dry, acidic soil
• Aggressive spreader

Culture

Prefers moist, slightly acidic soil and dappled shade but tolerates extremes. Propagate by dividing dormant rhizomes with a sharp knife or by spores. Infrequent problems.

Uses

Ground covers, naturalizing, woodland gardens (with caution due to aggressiveness).