Pteridium Revolutum

Description

Pteridium Revolutum, also known as the bracken fern, is a common fern species native to North America. It is known for its large size and distinctive triangular fronds that can grow up to 6 feet tall. The ferns are deciduous and can grow in a wide range of habitats including open fields, forests, and wetlands.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Pteridium Revolutum has large triangular-shaped fronds that are typically green and can grow up to 6 feet tall. The fronds are divided into smaller leaflets that are lance-shaped and slightly toothed. The ferns grow in clusters and can form dense patches in open fields and forests.

Care Guide

Water

Pteridium Revolutum prefers consistently moist soil, but it can tolerate some dryness. Water the ferns regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.

Fertilization

Fertilize Pteridium Revolutum once a month during the growing season with a general-purpose fertilizer. Use a diluted solution to avoid over-fertilization.

Soil

Pteridium Revolutum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil mixture of peat moss, sand, and loam is ideal.

Sunlight

Pteridium Revolutum prefers partial to full shade. Exposure to direct sunlight can damage the fronds and cause them to turn brown.

Hardiness Zones

Pteridium Revolutum is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.

Common Pests & Diseases

Pteridium Revolutum is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be affected by spider mites, aphids, and scale insects. Treat any infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The ferns can also develop leaf spot or rust, which can be treated with a copper-based fungicide.

Habitat

Pteridium Revolutum can be found in a variety of habitats including open fields, forests, and wetlands. It is a pioneer species that can grow in disturbed areas and can form dense patches that crowd out other plants.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Pteridium Revolutum be grown indoors?

A: Pteridium Revolutum prefers to grow outdoors and is not well-suited for indoor cultivation.

Q: How often should Pteridium Revolutum be fertilized?

A: Fertilize Pteridium Revolutum once a month during the growing season with a general-purpose fertilizer.

Q: Is Pteridium Revolutum invasive?

A: Pteridium Revolutum can be invasive in some areas and can form dense patches that crowd out other plants.

Q: Can Pteridium Revolutum tolerate drought?

A: Pteridium Revolutum can tolerate some dryness, but it prefers consistently moist soil.

Related Plants

• Pteridium Aquilinum
• Pteridium Esculentum
• Pteridium Latiusculum

References

• “Pteridium Revolutum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=242240&isprofile=0&pt=2. Accessed 15 Sept. 2021.
• “Bracken Fern.” USDA Forest Service, www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/pteridium_revolutum.shtml. Accessed 15 Sept. 2021.
• “Pteridium Revolutum.” Flora of North America, www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=242240. Accessed 15 Sept. 2021.