Neotropical Bracken Fern (Pteridium Arachnoideum) is a perennial fern in the Dennstaedtiaceae family with moderate care difficulty. It requires moderate watering and partial shade or full sun light in USDA hardiness zones 9-12. This plant is toxic to cats and dogs — keep it out of reach of pets.

Pteridium arachnoideum is a species of bracken fern native to Mexico and tropical America, known for its aggressive pioneer growth habit.

Neotropical Bracken Fern

Neotropical Bracken Fern

Pteridium Arachnoideum

Pteridium arachnoideum is a species of bracken fern native to Mexico and tropical America, known for its aggressive pioneer growth habit.

Quick Facts

Type
fern
Lifecycle
perennial
Care Difficulty
Moderate
Water Needs
Moderate
Light
Partial Shade, Full Sun
Hardiness Zones
9-12

Safety

⚠️
Not Pet Safe
⚠️
Not Child Safe
☠️
Toxic

Growing Conditions

Soil Types:loamy, sandy, well-drained
Indoor:No
Outdoor:Yes
Garden Use:groundcover, erosion control

Care Calendar

Monthly care tasks for Neotropical Bracken Fern

Jan
Prune
Feb
Fertilize
Mar
Repot
Apr
Water+
May
...
Jun
...
Jul
...
Aug
...
Sep
...
Oct
...
Nov
...
Dec
...

Expert Care Tips

Pro tips from botanists and plant experts

Watering Tip

Check soil moisture by inserting your finger 1 inch deep. Water only when the top layer feels dry to prevent overwatering.

Humidity Trick

Group plants together to create...

Growth Hack

Rotate your plant every...

Photo Gallery10+ photos

Neotropical Bracken Fern
Neotropical Bracken Fern detail

View leaf details, flowers, seeds & more in the app

Taxonomy

Family:Dennstaedtiaceae
Genus:Pteridium
Neotropical Bracken Fern Care Guide - How to Grow Pteridium Arachnoideum | PlantPeek