Kingdom:
Phylum:
Pteridophytes
Order:
Polypodiales
Genus:
Species:
altissima
ID:
1109946

Status:
valid

Authors:
Poir.

Source:
tro

Year:
1804

Citation Micro:
Encycl. 5: 722 (1804)

WFO Identifier:
wfo-0001109284



Common Names

  • Pteris altissima
  • Tall Brake Fern
  • Tall Pteris


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Description

Pteris altissima (also called Giant Brake, among many other common names) is a fern native to eastern North America. It is a large-sized fern with a stout, erect rhizome and a single, erect, leathery, dark green frond. It is found in moist, shady woods, ravines, and stream banks in the eastern United States and Canada.

Uses & Benefits

Pteris altissima is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and flowerbeds. It is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.

Flower, Seeds and Seedlings

Pteris altissima has small, yellow-green flowers and produces small, round, black seeds. The seedlings have a single, long, narrow leaf with a lanceolate shape and a pointed tip.

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Cultivation and Propagation

Pteris altissima is a hardy, evergreen fern that is native to the western United States. It prefers partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. Propagation is typically done by division or spores. Division should be done in early spring or late fall. Spores should be collected in late summer and sown on a sterile, moist medium.

Where to Find Pteris altissima

Pteris altissima is found in moist forests in the eastern United States, from Maine to Georgia.

Species in the Pteris genus

Species in the Pteridaceae family