Ribbon Fern Pteris

Pteris is a genus of 349 species of ferns that are native to tropical and subtropical regions of North America, South America, Europe, Africa, Southeast Asia, and Australia. They are typically fast-growing and found under tree canopies in forests, grasslands, or wetlands. They are members of the ribbon-fern family (Pteridaceae). The genus name, Pteris, is derived from the Greek word, pteron, that means "wing or feather." This references the fronds of these plants because they resemble a feathered wing or bird feathers. These ferns are commonly known as brake ferns, table ferns, or ribbon ferns. Plants in this genus are primarily grown as houseplants in North Carolina since they are not typically winter hardy below USDA Plant Hardiness Zone 9. 

Plants in this genus prefer bright, indirect light and moist, well-drained organic rich soil or potting mix. Moderate to high humidity and temperatures between 54 to 78 degrees Fahrenheit are also required. They can be grown outdoors in a sheltered location during the summer months in North Carolina, but they will need to be placed indoors before the temperatures drop below 54 degrees Fahrenheit in the fall. Remove yellowed, damaged, or dying fronds to keep the plants tidy. They may be propagated by spores, rhizome cuttings, or division.

These plant are rhizomatous and have an erect to creeping habit. They may be either evergreen, semi-evergreen, or deciduous ferns. The size of the plants vary depending on the species. The size and shape of the fronds also vary depending on the species and can range from small and simple to large and compound. The fronds may be pinnately compound, but on the some species, they may be uni-pinnate, bi-pinnate, or 4-pinnate. In some species, the pinnae are smaller at the base, larger in the middle, and then decrease in size toward the apex. The fronds can be leathery, smooth, hairy, or scaly. Each leaflet is usually elongated and narrow with a pointed tip.

Most of the species are easy to grow and are popular as a houseplants. They may also be placed in a sheltered area as a container planting on a patio during our warmer months. In warm tropical to sub-tropical climates, they may be planted in flower bed, rock gardens, or cottage gardens. Ferns serve as a habitat for small animals, and they also can help prevent erosion.

Quick ID Hints:

• Pinnae with elongated narrow segments
• Sori marginal covered by inrolled margin
• Fronds often variegated above

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems: No significant diseases or pests. Monitor for aphids, mealybugs, and scale. May be susceptible to rust, sooty mold, and leaf spots.  Watch for Florida Fern Caterpillar. Overwatering can cause yellow fronds and root rot. Underwatering, the fronds may become dry, crispy and yellowish-brown. To prevent sun scorch, it is best to avoid bright sunlight.

VIDEO Created by NC State Extension's Homegrown series featuring Mark Weathington, Director of JC Raulston Arboretum.