Pteris cretica

Common Names

Cretan Brake Fern, Ribbon Fern, Table Fern, Cretan Brake, Brake Fern, Silver Ribbon Fern

Summary

Cretan Brake Fern is an evergreen, clump-forming fern with short creeping rhizomes and wiry stalks. It features delicate, ribbon-like fronds that arch from the clump, pinnately divided into narrow leaflets; some varieties display variegation or pale midribs, including silver-striped forms. Typical size is about 45–75 cm tall with fronds around 30 cm long and 20 cm wide, and fronds may have a dark stalk; it is non-toxic to people and pets.

For culture, bright indirect light is preferred; avoid direct sun; thrives in humidity and evenly moist, well-draining soil; use a peat-based mix and water to keep soil damp but not waterlogged. Temperature ranges about 18–24°C; hardiness zones 9–12. Fertilize with half-strength balanced liquid every 2–4 weeks in the growing season; propagate by division in spring. Common uses include indoor ornament and shaded outdoor borders, with humidity-maintaining care through misting or humidifier as needed; pests may include aphids, mealybugs, or scale.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

0.5 ft - 2.5 ft

Spread

1-2.5 feet

Hardiness Zones

Zones 9-12

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally partial shade (indirect bright light; avoid direct sun).

Soil Type

Chalk-free, moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter, typically peat-based potting mixes (or peat–perlite–loam mixes) with a pH of 5.5–6.5

Soil Drainage

Well-drained soil that remains consistently damp but not waterlogged

Soil pH

5.5-6.5

Bloom Time

Does not bloom.

Foliage Color

Green, sometimes variegated with white, cream, or silvery markings.

Fall Foliage Color

Green

Leaf Lifecycle

Evergreen broadleaf

Growth Rate

Slow to moderate growth rate

Seasons of Interest

Spring and Summer

Propagation Methods

Division, Spores, Seeds, Cuttings

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts bees and other pollinating insects