



Bracken Fern
Low-maintenance, attractive ground cover
Adds lush greenery to shaded areas
Helps maintain soil moisture levels
Thrives in
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Bracken Fern - Pteridium aquilinum
The Bracken Fern (Pteridium aquilinum) is a vigorous grower and is one of the most widely distributed ferns on earth. They are native to many parts of the world, found naturally across woodlands environments and are considered cosmopolitan in nature. While many fern species are shade loving, this familiar fern grows well in sunny to shady conditions, making it a useful choice across many garden types.
It is a deciduous fern. After the first frost, it will recede back to its rhizomatous form for the winter months. In the spring, it comes back to life with charming fiddleheads that immerge from the rhizome across the forest floor. Reaching up to 3 ft in length, its fronds are triangular in shape and quite course and robust in appearance.
Plant Details - Bracken Fern
Family: Dennstaedtiaceae
Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 3–10
Light Requirement: Full sun to partial shade. Grows well in a variety of light conditions
Water Needs: Low to moderate
Height: 2 - 5 ft
Spread: Up to 5 ft
Growth Rate: Fast
Bloom Time: NA
Flower Color: NA
Wildlife Value: Provides cover for ground-dwelling wildlife.
It is an aggressive grower and will spread quickly in the right environment producing a rhizome extending up to 20 ft long. They will spread out into pastures and marginal areas easily, making it an ideal plant to use across a transitional garden space.
The Bracken Fern is not only a quick and efficient growers, it produces allelopathic compounds that reduce other plant’s ability to grow around them, further giving this fern a competitive edge when expanding its colonies. For this reason, it may be considered weedy when growing in optimum conditions.
Landscape Uses and Maintenance - Bracken Fern
This fern is low maintenance, easy to grow, and virtually pest and disease-free. They prefer consistently moist, well-drained, peaty to sand acidic soils. It is a robust fern and will also tolerate depauperate soils. It prefers full sun to part shade, making it a versatile plant for a naturalized woodland area. Once established, this fern will withstand periods of drought however not for long. Since this fern is a prolific spreader, it is best planted in an area where it can roam. Avoid planting in the garden as it can form aggressive rhizomes that are difficult to control and remove.
Noteworthy Characteristics
Fast growing, easy to maintain, grows in sunny to shady environments.
This fern is will provide a speedy ground cover to accompany your garden or woodland landscape, providing habitat for wildlife and visual appeal alike. Shop for the Bracken Fern online at TN Nursery. For 68 years, we have served the landscaping industry and homeowners with specimen plants.
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Height at Maturity
Under 2 Feet

Care
Bracken Fern thrives in well-drained, acidic soil and benefits from frequent watering to moisten the soil. Evading overwatering, which can lead to root rot, is essential. Additionally, removing dead fronds promotes healthy growth and helps prevent pests.

Plant Reproduction
Bracken Fern spreads via underground rhizomes and spore dispersal
Choose early spring or fall when the soil is moist and cool to plant healthy bare-root ferns. You can also use dormant plants to grow year-round. When you arrive, please soak the roots in water for several hours to rehydrate them. Ferns thrive in moist and shaded areas. Dig a hole wide and deep enough to spread out the roots comfortably. Position the fern so the crown (where the roots meet the fronds) is just at or slightly below ground level. Gently backfill with soil firmly around the roots, and thoroughly water to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch for weed control and to retain moisture, ensuring the mulch does not touch the crown. Water during dry periods is used to keep soil moist but not soggy. Avoid fertilizing in the first year, as ferns prefer nutrient-rich soil over direct fertilization.
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Sophisticated Texture:
Bracken Fern’s graceful, feathery fronds introduce a touch of refinement and intricate texture to your garden. It creates a visually captivating and serene atmosphere.
Effortless Care:
This fern is a breeze to maintain once it's established, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a low-maintenance garden. Enjoy its beauty without the hassle of frequent upkeep.
Robust and Hardy:
Known for its durability, Bracken Fern withstands various weather conditions and garden challenges. It’s a hardy plant that continues to thrive and enhance your garden despite the elements.
Space-Efficient:
With its compact, spreading growth, Bracken Fern fits perfectly in small gardens and tight spaces. It's ideal for urban settings or areas with limited planting room.
Caring Tips
How do I care for my Bracken Fern?
Each box contains detailed care instructions and information about your product. But here's the basics.
Care Tips
Bracken Fern thrives in well-drained, acidic soil and benefits from frequent watering to moisten the soil. Evading overwatering, which can lead to root rot, is essential. Additionally, removing dead fronds promotes healthy growth and helps prevent pests.
Light Requirements
Bracken Fern thrives in partial to full shade, preferring indirect light. It can tolerate some direct sunlight but does best in more relaxed, shaded areas that remain moist and protected from harsh conditions.
Hardy Planting Zones
3 • 4 • 5 • 6 • 7 • 8 • 9 • 10 • 11
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