Pteridium aquilinum

Pteridium aquilinum, commonly known as the bracken fern, is a species of fern in the family Dennstaedtiaceae, found worldwide. This fern is a deciduous plant, which means it sheds its leaves annually. It is known for its large, highly divided leaves and its ability to form dense thickets.

Description

Pteridium aquilinum is a large, coarse fern, with triangular fronds 2–3 m long, which are divided into three. It is a rhizomatous plant, with the rhizomes often turning blackish and scaly. The plant is deciduous, shedding its leaves in the late summer to early autumn. The leaves are pinnate, with a pinnae deeply lobed and cut.

Distribution and habitat

Pteridium aquilinum is one of the most widespread ferns known, occurring on all continents except Antarctica. It is a plant of many habitats, but particularly favours acidic, sandy soils. It is often one of the first species to colonise disturbed areas and can become a problem weed.

Ecology

Pteridium aquilinum has a significant impact on many ecosystems due to its ability to form dense thickets. These can prevent the regeneration of woody plants, and can also have a negative impact on biodiversity by outcompeting other plant species for resources.

Uses

Historically, Pteridium aquilinum has been used for a variety of purposes. The young fronds have been eaten as a vegetable, although this is now discouraged due to the plant's carcinogenic properties. The plant has also been used in herbal medicine, and the rhizomes have been used to make a type of flour.

See also

• Fern
• Dennstaedtiaceae
• Deciduous
• Rhizome
• Pinnate