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Description
Pteridium Aquilinum, commonly known as the bracken fern, is a perennial fern that is native to many parts of the world. It typically grows in open areas such as meadows, fields, and along roadsides. It can also be found in forests, where it often grows in large colonies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Dennstaedtiaceae |
| Genus | Pteridium |
Appearance
The bracken fern can grow up to 3 meters in height, and its fronds can grow up to 1 meter long. The fronds are triangular in shape and are divided into smaller leaflets. The leaflets are green in color and have a serrated edge. The plant produces spores on the undersides of the fronds, which are released in late summer to early fall.
Care Guide
The bracken fern is a hardy plant that is relatively easy to care for. It prefers well-drained soil and partial to full sunlight. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but prefers slightly acidic soils. It should be watered regularly, but not over-watered. Fertilizer can be applied in the spring and summer months.
The bracken fern is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The bracken fern is relatively pest and disease-free, but can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as rust and leaf spot. These diseases can be controlled with fungicides.
Habitat
The bracken fern can be found in many different habitats around the world, including meadows, fields, forests, and along roadsides. It prefers open areas with well-drained soil and partial to full sunlight.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the bracken fern toxic to animals?
A: Yes, the bracken fern contains toxins that can be harmful to livestock and wildlife.
Q: Can the bracken fern be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, the bracken fern has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments.
Q: Can the bracken fern be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the bracken fern can be grown indoors in a bright, humid location.
Q: How long does the bracken fern live?
A: The bracken fern is a perennial plant that can live for several years.
Related Plants
- Pteridium Esculentum
- Pteridium Aquilinum var. latiusculum
- Pteridium Aquilinum var. pubescens
References
- “Bracken Fern.” USDA Forest Service. https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/pteridium_aquilinum.shtml
- “Pteridium Aquilinum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279938
- “Common Bracken.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/6061/i-pteridium-aquilinum-i/details
