Edible Bracken (Pteridium Esculentum) is a perennial fern in the Dennstaedtiaceae family with easy care difficulty. It requires moderate watering and partial shade or full shade or dappled_shade light in USDA hardiness zones 8-11. This plant is toxic to cats and dogs — keep it out of reach of pets.

Pteridium esculentum is a widespread fern native to Australia and New Zealand, known for its robust, spreading habit and historical use as a food source.

Edible Bracken

Edible Bracken

Pteridium Esculentum

Pteridium esculentum is a widespread fern native to Australia and New Zealand, known for its robust, spreading habit and historical use as a food source.

Quick Facts

Type
fern
Lifecycle
perennial
Care Difficulty
Easy
Water Needs
Moderate
Light
Partial Shade, Full Shade, dappled_shade
Hardiness Zones
8-11

Safety

⚠️
Not Pet Safe
⚠️
Not Child Safe
☠️
Toxic

Growing Conditions

Soil Types:loamy, sandy, peaty
Indoor:No
Outdoor:Yes
Garden Use:groundcover, erosion control

Care Calendar

Monthly care tasks for Edible Bracken

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

Edible Bracken
Edible Bracken detail

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Taxonomy

Family:Dennstaedtiaceae
Genus:Pteridium