Species table fern

table fern

Pteris ensiformis

Also Known As - silver lace fern,variegated brake fern
Table fern (Pteris ensiformis) is an evergreen clumping fern with upright, arching fronds that can reach 24 inches in length. Its shiny, fan-shaped fronds often appear in shades of yellow-green to blue-green. This medium-sized fern creates an elegant display when grown in containers, or it can be placed directly in gardens, where it can be grown as a groundcover. Table fern prefers warm, sunny areas with good drainage, and it can be susceptible to scorching by direct sunlight. Through the summer months, the fronds may die and need to be trimmed back to keep the plant looking tidy. With an average growth rate, these plants can spread to cover a 2-foot area over time.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Spore Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

9

Sun:

filtered shade,part sun/part shade

Fruits:

brown,black Fruits Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Indoors:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Table Ferns should be watered lightly and often, about once a week. However, if the soil feels dry, you can water it more frequently. Be careful not to overwater as this plant does not like to be soggy. Water generously and thoroughly (until water is draining from the drainage holes). Be sure to allow the water to completely drain out before refilling the pot with new water.

sunlight

Table Ferns require moderate to bright indirect sunlight for most of the day. About 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight a day is the best. Too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to become scorched or yellow. The table fern can also tolerate lower light conditions, but it will not thrive as best as it can with moderate to bright indirect light.

pruning

Table ferns (Pteris ensiformis) should be pruned in the spring or early summer, as soon as new growth appears. Pruning should be done to maintain a desired shape or size, and no more than 1/3 of the plant should be removed in each pruning session. Doing too much pruning may weaken the plant so it is best to remove no more than what is necessary. In addition, it is important not to leave any jagged edges in the plant which could lead to disease.

Hardiness Map