Also known as Bracken · Brackenfern · Brake
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Common bracken (Pteridium aquilinum) is a widespread, hardy fern with a deeply lobed frond. It can spread aggressively, forming dense stands.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial to full shade
50% intensity
Thrives in dappled shade or partial shade. Can tolerate some sun if soil remains moist.
Consistent moisture
50% intensity
Prefers moist soil, but avoid waterlogging. Water deeply when the top inch is dry.
Acidic, Well-drained
50% intensity
Adaptable
25% intensity
Tolerates a wide range of temperatures, thriving in temperate climates. Hardy in USDA zones 2-10.
Low feeding
10% intensity
Generally requires no fertilizer. If growth is poor, a light balanced feed in spring is sufficient.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Contains ptaquiloside, carcinogenic and toxic. All parts are toxic.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Common bracken thrives in consistently moist soil. Water deeply when the top inch of soil begins to dry out, especially during hot and dry periods. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.
In drier climates or during prolonged droughts, more frequent watering may be necessary.
Pruning of common bracken is primarily for management and spread control rather than aesthetic shaping. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased fronds at any time of year.
For population control, cutting back fronds before they set spores can help limit its invasive spread in unwanted areas.
Propagation of Pteridium aquilinum is typically achieved through its rhizomes. Division of the underground root system is the most common method. This can be done in early spring before new frond growth begins.
Spore propagation is possible but less common and slower for home gardeners.
Repotting is generally not applicable to common bracken as it is a wild fern typically grown in the ground.
If attempting to cultivate it in a very large container, ensure it has ample space for its extensive rhizomatous root system to spread. Repotting would occur in early spring.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Common Bracken (Pteridium aquilinum)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| kingdom | Plantae |
| division | Tracheophyta |
| class | Polypodiopsida |
| order | Polypodiales |
| family | Dennstaedtiaceae |
| genus | Pteridium |
| species | Pteridium aquilinum |
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
