Silver Lace Fern (Pteris quadriaurita)

Silver Lace Fern

Pteris quadriaurita

Lacy fronds drape like delicate silver-edged lace. Evergreen fern; common names: Silver Lace Fern, Brake Fern.

Partial sun
2–3/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Bright indirect light; avoid harsh direct sunlight which can scorch frond edges
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Watering Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid allowing the potting mix to dry out completely
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Temperature Thrives in warm, humid conditions; avoid cold drafts below 12°C to prevent frond browning
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Characteristics

  • Frond: Arching, finely divided fronds with silvery white edges along pinnae
  • Rhizome: Short, creeping, covered in brown, fibrous scales
  • Sori: Linear spore clusters on undersides of mature frond pinnae
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Care Guide

Watering

Maintain consistent soil moisture; mist fronds 2–3 times weekly to boost humidity

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed every 6 weeks. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can damage frond edges

Banana peel compost tea:Steep fully composted banana peels in room-temperature water for 24 hours; dilute 1:20 for root drench to support healthy frond growth
Pruning
  • Trim brown, damaged fronds at the base to maintain a tidy appearance
  • Remove old, yellowing fronds in spring to encourage new growth
  • Thin overcrowded clumps every 2 years to improve airflow around the rhizome
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA-verified non-toxic; no harmful effects for cats

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental indoor foliage, terrarium plant, shaded garden groundcover