Overview of Pteridium aquilinum (L.) Kuhn var. pubescens Underwood
Pteridium aquilinum (L.) Kuhn var. pubescens Underwood is a variety of the species Pteridium aquilinum, commonly known as the Bracken fern. It is a member of the Dennstaedtiaceae family, and is native to North America.
Appearance
The Bracken fern is a large fern with fronds that can grow up to three meters in height. The fronds are triangular in shape and are divided into several smaller leaflets, which are further subdivided into smaller leaflets. The fronds have a distinctive, light green color and are covered in fine hairs, giving them a soft, fuzzy appearance. The roots of the plant are rhizomatous and can spread widely, allowing the fern to form large clonal colonies.
Common Names
The Bracken fern has many common names depending on the region, including Western brackenfern, brake fern, tall brackenfern, and eagle fern. The name "bracken" comes from the Old Norse word "braken," which means "fern."
Uses
The Bracken fern has a long history of use by humans, both for its medicinal and culinary properties. Historically, it has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including wounds, fever, and digestive issues. Today, it is still used in traditional medicine, although many of its uses have not been scientifically validated.
The young shoots of the fern are also edible and have been used as a food source for centuries. They are harvested in the spring before they unfurl and can be eaten raw or cooked. The roots of the plant have also been used as a source of starch.
However, it is important to note that the Bracken fern is considered toxic and can cause illness in humans and animals if consumed in large quantities. It contains a variety of carcinogenic compounds, and long-term consumption can lead to digestive issues, anemia, and even cancer.
Growth Conditions for Pteridium aquilinum (L.) Kuhn var. pubescens Underwood
Light: Pteridium aquilinum var. pubescens is a shade-tolerant plant that prefers partial to full shade. It can grow in direct sunlight, but prolonged exposure may cause leaf scorching.
Temperature: This plant is adapted to a wide range of temperatures and can tolerate both hot and cold temperatures. Its optimal growth temperature is between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), but it can survive in temperatures as low as -23°C (-10°F) and as high as 35°C (95°F).
Soil: Pteridium aquilinum var. pubescens prefers well-drained and moist soils rich in organic matter. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, including sandy soils, loamy soils, and clay soils. However, it does not tolerate waterlogging.
Water: This plant requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather conditions. However, it can tolerate short periods of drought.
Nutrients: Pteridium aquilinum var. pubescens is adapted to low-nutrient soils and does not require additional fertilization. However, adding organic matter to the soil can improve its growth and health.
Cultivation of Pteridium aquilinum var. pubescens
Pteridium aquilinum var. pubescens is a hardy plant that can tolerate various soil types, but it thrives in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant prefers partial shade to full sun exposure and requires adequate spacing to enable its aggressive growth habit.
The best time to plant this fern is in early fall when the soil is still warm from the summer and the rain showers are frequent. However, this plant can also be planted in the spring, preferably after the last frost.
Watering Needs of Pteridium aquilinum var. pubescens
Although this fern is drought-tolerant, regular watering is necessary for optimum growth and to promote lush, green fronds. Water the plant deeply, at least once or twice a week during the hot and dry summer months. During the cooler months, reduce the frequency of watering to avoid waterlogged and root rotting issues.
Fertilization of Pteridium aquilinum var. pubescens
This plant does not require fertilizers regularly. However, a balanced slow-release fertilizer can be applied during the early spring or early fall to boost its growth and promote the development of healthy, green leaves. Avoid over-fertilizing the fern, which can cause it to develop thin, spindly growth.
Pruning of Pteridium aquilinum var. pubescens
Though pruning is not strictly necessary for this plant, it can help keep the fern in check and prevent it from becoming too invasive. The best time to prune is during late winter or early spring before the plant starts growing again. Cut back old fronds at the base of the stem and remove any damaged or diseased leaves.
Propagation of Pteridium aquilinum var. pubescens Underwood
Pteridium aquilinum var. pubescens Underwood, commonly known as bracken fern, is a widely distributed plant found in different continents all over the world. The plant is known for its large fronds and its ability to grow in various environments, including moist woods, meadows, rocky slopes, and even disturbed areas such as roadside ditches. Propagation of Pteridium aquilinum var. pubescens can be done through various methods, as discussed below.
Spores
Propagation through spores is one of the easiest ways to grow Pteridium aquilinum var. pubescens. The process involves collecting mature spores, which can be found on the underside of the fronds, and sowing them in a suitable environment. The ideal growing medium for Pteridium aquilinum var. pubescens spores should be rich in organic matter and well-draining. The spores should be scattered on the surface of the growing medium and covered lightly with a thin layer of soil. The container should be kept moist, and the spores should germinate within a few weeks.
Division
Propagation through division is another common method used to propagate Pteridium aquilinum var. pubescens. It involves dividing the rhizomes, which are the underground stems of the plant, into smaller sections and planting them in a suitable environment. To ensure successful propagation through division, it is important to select healthy rhizomes with several buds. The sections should be planted in well-draining soil in a location that receives enough sunlight and moisture. Water the rhizomes regularly until they establish themselves in the new environment.
Cuttings
Cuttings can also be used to propagate Pteridium aquilinum var. pubescens. This method involves taking a stem cutting from a healthy frond and planting it in a suitable environment. The cutting should be taken from the base of the frond and should be about six inches long. Remove all the leaves except the top two and plant the cutting in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and ensure the cutting receives enough sunlight. The cutting should root within a few weeks and can be transplanted to a permanent location once it has established roots.
Cultural practices
Cultural practices such as fertilization and watering can also help to propagate Pteridium aquilinum var. pubescens. The plant responds well to organic fertilizers such as compost and manure. Watering should be done regularly, especially during dry periods, to ensure the plant does not dry out. Proper cultural practices can encourage the plant to produce more rhizomes, which can be divided and used for propagation.
Disease Management
Pteridium aquilinumvar. pubescens can be affected by a range of diseases such as leaf spots, powdery mildew, and rust. Leaf spots are caused by fungus and can cause the leaves to become blotchy and discolored. Powdery mildew is caused by the fungus and appears as white, powdery spots on the plant's leaves and stems. Rust, caused by a fungal disease, creates orange or brown-colored spots on the leaves' undersides, causing them to deform.
To manage fungal diseases, removing affected plant material and soil is necessary. Prune branches that have been impacted by the disease, and make sure to clean and disinfect pruning equipment. Avoid watering plant foliage to discourage fungal growth. If the symptoms persist, chemical control can be used, such as copper-based fungicides.
Pest Management
Common pests for Pteridium aquilinumvar. pubescens are aphids and spider mites. Aphids are small insects that suck sap from the plant, and their presence can stunt the plant's growth and spread viruses. Spider mites are a type of arachnid that causes damage by feeding off the plant's sap and reproducing quickly. They create a fine, web-like substance around the plant, causing it to become weak and die.
To manage aphids and spider mites, try removing them by hand by wiping a clean, damp cloth over the plant's leaves. Utilizing insecticidal soap can be effective in controlling both pests. Furthermore, encouraging natural predators, such as ladybugs, can help control aphid populations. Regularly checking plants can help detect infestations early, which will make control measures more effective and efficient.
