Pteris atrovirens

Pteris atrovirens

Common Brake

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Taxonomy

Common Names

Common Brake

Context

nativeRegion

Southeast Asia, particularly tropical and subtropical regions including China, India, and the Philippines.

usdaZones

9–11 (outdoors); grown indoors in cooler zones.

companionPlants

Adiantum spp., Asplenium nidus, Begonia spp., Calathea spp.

culturalUses

Grown primarily as an ornamental foliage plant; sometimes used in traditional medicine in its native range.

Care

LightBright, indirect light; can tolerate partial shade but avoid direct sun.

WateringKeep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water when the top inch feels slightly dry.

SoilPrefers rich, loose, well-draining soil with high humus content; pH slightly acidic to neutral.

FertilizerApply diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during growing season.

HumidityHigh humidity preferred (above 60%). Mist regularly or use humidity tray indoors.

TemperatureOptimal range is 15–25°C (59–77°F); avoid cold drafts and temperatures below 10°C (50°F).

HabitEvergreen, clumping fern with arching, glossy fronds.

Mature SizeTypically 40–60 cm tall and wide.

Growth RateModerate growth under optimal conditions.

BloomingFerns do not bloom; reproduction is via spores.

DormancyNo true dormancy; slows growth in cooler temperatures.

MethodsSpores, Division of rhizomes

DifficultyModerate; division is easier for most growers than spore propagation.

Best SeasonSpring to early summer for division; early spring for spore sowing.

PruningRemove old, yellow, or damaged fronds to encourage new growth.

RepottingRepot every 1–2 years or when rootbound, preferably in spring.

Pests & DiseasesGenerally resilient but watch for scale, mealybugs, and fungal leaf spots in high-humidity conditions.

ToxicityNon-toxic to humans and pets.

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