Chinese ladder brake fern - Pteris vittata (Care, Characteristics, Invasive, Images)

Chinese ladder brake fern

Also known as: Ladder fern, Chinese bracken

Chinese ladder brake fern (Pteris vittata) is native to China, however, it has found its way invasively across the globe, where it has made several noxious weed lists. It does have a benefit, though, as it acts as a sponge for toxins in the soil and repairs polluted areas. After the chinese ladder brake fern grows in these contaminated soils, their fronds become concentrated with toxins, typically arsenic.

Scientific classification

Species

Chinese ladder brake fern (Pteris vittata)

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Perennial

Lifespan

90 cm to 1.2 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Chinese ladder brake fern

Distribution of Chinese ladder brake fern

Distribution Map

Chinese ladder brake fern boasts a widespread native presence across tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and parts of Europe. Chinese ladder brake fern has also been introduced to continents like North and South America, and Oceania. In certain areas of its introduced range, chinese ladder brake fern may have an impact on ecosystems, as in some parts of Asia and South America, where its growth can be vigorous. Despite this, chinese ladder brake fern is sometimes thought to be problematic rather than pervasively invasive.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Roadsides, other disturbed areas, coastal plain

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Toxicity

Chinese ladder brake fern is moderately toxic to humans, cats, and dogs, primarily through ingestion, due to arsenic. Symptoms include abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, cardiac abnormalities. Immediate veterinary or medical intervention is crucial upon suspected ingestion. All parts of chinese ladder brake fern are toxic, necessitating caution to prevent accidental ingestion by pets and humans.

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Care Guide for Chinese ladder brake fern

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from tropical regions, chinese ladder brake fern thrives in consistently moist environments and requires weekly watering. As an indoor ornamental plant, it benefits from home humidity and regular misting to promote lush growth during its active season.

Fertilize: Fertilize chinese ladder brake fern bi-monthly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer at half strength during spring and summer, tapering in fall and winter. This enhances growth but avoid over-fertilization to protect roots. Water soil before applying and adjust application as growth slows.

Pruning: Chinese ladder brake fern features elegant fronds and purifies air. For optimal health, prune dead or damaged sections in early to late spring. This encourages new growth, maintains aesthetics, and manages size. Regular checks for disease are essential to ensure the plant's vigor and longevity.

Propagation: Chinese ladder brake fern flourishes in shade, detoxifying air from heavy metals. To propagate, divide mature clumps ensuring each has roots, then plant in humus-rich, well-drained soil, maintaining moisture for root development. This method allows chinese ladder brake fern to establish quickly, enhancing its air-cleansing benefits.

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