Pteris Fern
Pteris spp.
Also called Brake Fern or Table Fern, this group includes many species with lacy to strap-like fronds, often marked with a silvery-white band. They suit shaded stands and terrariums when you keep moisture and humidity steady.
Light
Bright Indirect
Water
High
Difficulty
Moderate
Humidity
High
Pet Friendly
Pteris ferns are generally considered non-toxic to cats, dogs, and humans, making them an excellent choice for pet-friendly households.
Full care guide
Pteris Fern Care
Grow Pteris (brake fern) with bright indirect light, consistently moist soil, and humidity above 50%. Moderate care, pet-safe, and a strong pick for terrariums.
Read the guideCare Notes
Full guide →Light
Give bright, filtered light. Afternoon sun scorches fronds. Too little light stretches growth and fades variegation.
Water
Never let the root ball dry out completely. Keep soil evenly moist, not soggy. Dry soil turns fronds brown and crispy fast. Use a pot with drainage holes so water can leave.
Soil
A rich peat-based mix that still drains well works best. Avoid heavy mixes that stay waterlogged around the roots.
Humidity & Temperature
Keep humidity above 50% with a pebble tray or humidifier. Aim for stable temperatures around 60–75°F. In winter, water a little less but never let the root ball go bone dry, and keep the plant off radiators and drafty windows.
Common Issues
Brown tips often mean low humidity or mineral buildup from tap water. Filtered or rainwater can help. Sparse fronds usually mean more light or more consistent moisture.
In-Depth Care & Growth
Feeding & Soil
Fertilizer
Balanced liquid fertilizer
Soil
A rich, peat-based potting mix with excellent drainage properties.
Physical Attributes
Mature Size
12-24 inches tall and wide
Growth Rate
Moderate
Propagation
Division of the root ball during repotting or by sowing spores found on the undersides of mature fronds.
Common Varieties
Pteris cretica 'Albolineata' (Silver Brake Fern)
Slender ribbon-like leaflets with a creamy-white central stripe and green margins.
Pteris ensiformis 'Victoriae' (Silver Lace Fern)
Arching fronds with a bold silvery-white stripe down each narrow dark-green leaflet.
Pteris tremula (Australian Brake Fern)
Large arching fronds of light-green foliage finely divided into a lace-like pattern.