Southern Brackenfern
Pteridium caudatum
Taxonomy
- Division:
- Pteridophyta | - Ferns
- Family:
- Dennstaedtiaceae
- Genus:
- Pteridium
- Species:
- Pteridium caudatum
Growth Characteristics
- Life Cycle:
- Perennial
- Growth Habit:
- Forb/herb
- Height:
- 2-3 ft
- Light Requirements:
- Full Sun
- Drought Tolerance:
- Medium
- Bloom Colors:
- Not Applicable
Native Range
United States: Florida, Puerto Rico
Keystone Species Ranking
- Caterpillar Keystone:
- ★★★★☆ Based on number of butterfly and moth species using this genus as host plant (Source: National Wildlife Federation)
Host Plant for Caterpillars
black-headed fireworm (Sparganothis pilleriana), bracken borer moth (Papaipema pterisii), California Tussock Moth (Leptarctia californiae), Callopistria cordata, Callopistria mollissima, Eueretagrotis perattentus, Euplexia benesimilis, fringed homochlodes moth (Homochlodes fritillaria), Garden Tiger Moth (Arctia caja), Hitched Arch (Melanchra adjuncta), Homochlodes lactispargaria, Melanchra assimilis, Olethreutes osmundana, Paradiarsia littoralis, Philedia punctomacularia, Spilosoma pteridis, Variegated cutworm (Peridroma saucia)
Soil Requirements
- Soil Type:
- sandy, acidic, nutrient-poor soil
- pH:
- 4.5 - 6.5 (acidic to slightly acidic)
- Drainage:
- excellent drainage required
- Moisture:
- dry to moderate
- Notes:
- commonly found in open, disturbed areas