Pteris

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At-A-Glance Information

This genus of ferns is commonly called Brake, and needs partial to full shade and moderate to regular water. They are native to the tropics and subtropics. There are many species available for purchase; those listed below are garden-sized architectural ferns. 

pteris Species and Varietals

The best growing zones for Pteris vary depending on the species. For more information, see the descriptions below. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.

Pteris cretica (Cretan Brake, Ribbon Fern)
Best in zones 17, 23, 24, H1 and H2, this species of Brake is easy to grow and tops out at 2.5 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It has thin fronds and narrow leaflets, and there are numerous varieties available. Varieties include 'Albolineata' (pictured; with a broad white band down the center of each leaflet), and 'Mayi' (like Albolineata, but with crested frond tips).

Pteris ensiformis 'Evergemiensis'
Best in zones 17, 23, 24, H1 and H2, this species reaches 3 feet tall and a little less wide. Its fronds are very narrowly divided and intricately variegated in white.

Pteris tremula (Australian Brake)
This fern has graceful fronds on slender, upright stalks and is a great landscape fern with a beautiful silhouette. It is fast growing and does well in zones 16, 17, and 22-24. Reaches 5 feet tall and 3 feet wide at maturity.

Caring for Festuca

Propagation

Problems and Pests

Gallery

Camellias are great candidates to be grown as container plants on your patio.
A field of thea sinensis
Camellia hiemalis 'Shishi Gashira'

Videos

A video all about growing camellias successfully
Propagating camellias

Resources

The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page 527, Pratia
If you have any questions, comments, concerns, or photos you’d like to add to the gallery, please let me know by sending me a message using the button below!
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