Pteris cretica (Cretan Brake Fern, Ribbon Fern, Table Fern)


Botanical Information

FamilyPteridaceae
GenusPteris
Speciescretica
CategoryPerennials, Tropicals, Ferns
OriginTropics and subtropics of Europe, Asia and Africa (Old World).

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone9 - 12
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness ZoneRequires cold season protection under glass.
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH1b - H4
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)-10 - 15
Temperature (°F)14 - 59
Height0.3 - 0.6 m
Spread0.3 - 0.6 m
GrowthSlow

Description and Growing Information

General DescriptionEvergreen fern with pale green pinnae and gracefully arching fronds.
LandscapeMakes a good houseplant for a low-light, or warm, humid locations.
CultivationBest grown in part to full shade, with high humidity and sandy soil with limestone. Do not allow roots to dry out. Do not expose to full sun. Avoid handling due to easily bruised fronds. Cut back fronds to the base to encourage new growth.
PestsAphids, mealybugs, scale and rust spot.
Notable SpecimensCentennial Conservatory, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada.
Leaf DescriptionStiletto-shaped with undulating margins, 1 - 5 pairs arranged pinnately in gracefully arching fronds.
Flower DescriptionNon-flowering, producing spores.
Colour DescriptionLeaves are pale green.

Photographs