A massive native fern that forms thick stands. One of the most successful plants on earth — found on every continent except Antarctica. Aggressive spreader in disturbed sites.
§ Quick facts
§ Encyclopedia
Pteridium aquilinum, commonly called bracken, brake, pasture brake, common bracken, and also known as eagle fern, is a species of fern occurring in temperate and subtropical regions in both hemispheres. Originally native to Eurasia and North America, the extreme lightness of its spores has led to it achieving a cosmopolitan distribution.
Source: Wikipedia — Pteridium aquilinum Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0
§ Identification
Field marks. Large triangular fern frond divided into 3 main sections; emerges from underground rhizome.
Similar species. Other large ferns (different frond shapes).
§ Diet & behavior
Diet. N/A — photosynthesis
Behavior. Cosmopolitan fern; among the most widespread plants on Earth. Contains carcinogenic compounds; livestock that eat large quantities can develop "bracken poisoning."
§ Range
Worldwide; across North America
§ Habitat
Disturbed soils, forest edges, open meadows
§ Threats
Excessive spreading on disturbed sites, livestock toxicity.
§ Conservation status
According to the IUCN Red List, the bracken fern is currently classified as Least Concern.
§ What helps
Don't eat bracken fiddleheads. Maintain native plant diversity in disturbed sites.
§ Further reading
- Wikipedia — Pteridium aquilinum
- www.nwf.org — authoritative profile of Pteridium aquilinum
- iNaturalist · taxon 123053
- IUCN Red List — search for Pteridium aquilinum
- GBIF occurrence records
- Encyclopedia of Life — Pteridium aquilinum
§ Sources cited
- USDA Plants Database
- Native Plant Trust
