Pteridium aquilinum

Sturdy bright green triangular fronds
Found in large patches in wet or dry conditions
Single fronds emerge from spreading rhizomes
Tolerant of dry soils and full sun
Deep rhizomes allow it to survive harsh conditions like fire or floods
Poisonous to livestock
Deciduous

ZONE:
4

COLOUR:
Non-flowering

HEIGHT:
40-80 cm

SPREAD:
80-100 cm

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Growing and Maintenance Tips:

Pteridium grows best in a moist to average, slightly acidic soil, in partial shade, however, it will tolerate dry, full sun conditions. The first frost will cause leaves to die back; cleaning up the dead leaves in the spring is recommended.

Additional Notes about Bracken Fern:

Native to Ontario

Larval host for several native moths and other insects. The fronds are used for nesting materials by birds, including the beloved Indigo Bunting. The foliage is only rarely browsed by deer and rabbits. The fiddleheads should be avoided by human beings, as they contain carcinogenic substances.