Overview
Pteris vittata is a clump forming ferns in the genus Pteris, part of the Pteridaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Pteris vittata 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 vittata, the Chinese brake, Chinese ladder brake, or simply ladder brake, is a fern species in the Pteridoideae subfamily of the Pteridaceae. In the Ghanaian Akan dialect, it is called "Ayan". It is indigenous to Asia, southern Europe, tropical Africa (West and South Africa), and Australia. The type specimen was collected in China by Pehr Osbeck. 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. Plant in moist, humus-rich soil in shade.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Pteris vittata
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 vittata 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 vittata
- Propagation
- Division, Spores
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Pteris vittata?
Pteris vittata prefers full shade and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Pteris vittata need?
Pteris vittata 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 vittata hardy in the UK?
Pteris vittata 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 vittata?
Division, Spores.
