Contents
Description
Dennstaedtia wilfordii, commonly known as Chinese Brake Fern, is a species of fern native to China and Taiwan. It belongs to the family Dennstaedtiaceae and is characterized by its large, triangular fronds that can grow up to 1.5 meters in length. The fronds have a delicate, lacy appearance and are a bright green color. The plant is deciduous and will lose its fronds in the winter, but will regrow them in the spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Dennstaedtiales |
| Family | Dennstaedtiaceae |
| Genus | Dennstaedtia |
| Species | Dennstaedtia wilfordii |
Appearance
Chinese Brake Fern has large, triangular fronds that are divided into smaller, lacy segments. The fronds can grow up to 1.5 meters in length and have a bright green color. The plant is deciduous and will lose its fronds in the winter, but will regrow them in the spring. The new fronds will emerge from the center of the plant and will be tightly curled before unfolding into the characteristic triangular shape.
Care Guide
Chinese Brake Fern requires consistent moisture, but not waterlogged soil. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season, but should not be fertilized during the winter when it is dormant. It prefers bright, indirect light and can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can scorch the fronds. Chinese Brake Fern is hardy in zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Chinese Brake Fern is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. It can also be affected by fungal diseases such as rust and leaf spot. To prevent pests and diseases, make sure to keep the plant healthy and well-watered. If you notice any signs of infestation or disease, treat the plant with an appropriate insecticide or fungicide.
Habitat
Chinese Brake Fern is native to China and Taiwan, where it grows in damp, shady areas such as forests and along stream banks. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Chinese Brake Fern be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Chinese Brake Fern can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a location with bright, indirect light.
Q: How often should Chinese Brake Fern be watered?
A: Chinese Brake Fern should be watered consistently, but not waterlogged. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: Can Chinese Brake Fern be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Chinese Brake Fern can be grown in a container as long as the container has drainage holes and the soil is well-draining.
Q: Does Chinese Brake Fern need to be pruned?
A: No, Chinese Brake Fern does not need to be pruned. Simply remove any dead or yellowing fronds as needed.
Related Plants
- Dennstaedtia punctilobula – Hay-scented Fern
- Dennstaedtia cicutaria – Western Hayscented Fern
- Dennstaedtia scabra – Rough Hayscented Fern
References
- “Dennstaedtia wilfordii.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 19, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279334.
- “Dennstaedtia wilfordii.” Plant Delights Nursery. Accessed August 19, 2021. https://www.plantdelights.com/products/dennstaedtia-wilfordii.
- “Chinese Brake Fern (Dennstaedtia wilfordii).” Gardening Know How. Accessed August 19, 2021. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/chinese-brake-fern/chinese-brake-fern-care.htm.
