Pteris (genus, brake)

Japanese name: プテリス
Scientific name: Pteris

[Overview]
A terrestrial or rock-dwelling fern, usually evergreen.
The rhizome is short, erect or creeping, and bears scales.
The fronds are usually once- or twice-pinnate, and the leaf stalks are often straw-colored or tinged brown.
The sori are linear and extend long along or near the margin of the pinnae, and the leaf margin curls back to cover the sporangia.

[Cultivation]
Propagate by division.
In regions without frost it can overwinter outdoors, but potted plants are safer brought indoors to a sunny place in winter.
From autumn to spring it prefers a sunny place, and in summer a place that avoids direct sunlight, with well-drained, fertile soil.
Take care not to let it dry out, as the leaves will wither; for potted plants, from spring to autumn water thoroughly when the soil surface begins to dry, and keep it on the dry side in winter.
For plants in the ground, rainfall is sufficient.
In dry periods, mist the leaves with a sprayer.
From spring to autumn, apply slow-release fertilizer placed on the soil once every 2 months.
Spider mites can occur.

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