Overview
Pteris multifida is a clump forming ferns in the genus Pteris, part of the Pteridaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Pteris multifida grows best in full shade and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and alkaline and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1a. Suggested uses include sub-tropical, patio and container plants, cottage and informal garden, city and courtyard gardens, houseplants, underplanting of roses and shrubs and flower borders and beds.
About
Pteris multifida, the spider brake, is a species of fern in the family Pteridaceae. It is native to central and southern China, Korea, Japan, the Ryukyus, Taiwan, and Vietnam. A shade-loving lithophyte with fronds reaching at most 60 cm (24 in), it is typically found growing on old walls, and is a rare example of a fern synanthrope. In the garden it prefers full shade and partial shade and most soil types. In UK gardens it needs tropical warmth and glass protection in the UK (RHS H1a). Suggested uses include sub-tropical, patio and container plants, cottage and informal garden, city and courtyard gardens, houseplants, underplanting of roses and shrubs and flower borders and beds. It tolerates alkaline and neutral soils, moist but well-drained conditions and south-facing, west-facing and east-facing aspects.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Pteris multifida
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Pteris
- Sunlight
- Full shade, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1a
Plant details
Pteris multifida size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Ferns
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Sub-tropical, Patio and container plants, Cottage and informal garden, City and courtyard gardens, Houseplants, Underplanting of roses and shrubs, Flower borders and beds
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Pteris multifida
- Propagation
- Division, Spores
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Pteris multifida?
Pteris multifida prefers full shade and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Pteris multifida need?
Pteris multifida is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It prefers alkaline and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Pteris multifida hardy in the UK?
Pteris multifida has an RHS hardiness rating of H1a, meaning it needs tropical warmth above 15°C and must be grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Pteris multifida?
Division, Spores.
