fern

Ladder Brake

Pteris vittata 'Benzilan'

The Story

Plant Bio

Pteris vittata, or Ladder Brake, is a fast-growing fern with long, pinnate fronds that resemble a ladder. Unusually for a fern, it thrives in full sun to partial shade and is known for growing on walls and in rocky crevices.

This cultivar is particularly noted for its resilience in various soil types and its ability to tolerate some drought once established.

Uses & Benefits:

Lush, vibrant fronds add a tropical aesthetic to shaded gardens and indoor spaces.

Helps increase humidity in indoor environments, benefiting other moisture-loving plants.

Provides habitat and food for certain insects and small wildlife in shaded, moist areas.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Fern

Height

30 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

8, 9, 10

Water

High moisture

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Asia and Pacific regions

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck spores or rhizomes into well-draining soil, keeping surface moist for 2–3 weeks.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting, about 4 weeks.
Place in indirect light; avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf scorch.
Water consistently to keep soil evenly moist, especially during active growth periods.
Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer monthly during spring and summer.
Divide clumps every 2–3 years to refresh growth and maintain health.

Pro Tip

Maintain high humidity and indirect light for lush, healthy fronds.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
Provide bright, indirect light
Mist regularly to increase humidity
Feed monthly with diluted liquid fertilizer
Divide clumps in early spring

Don't

Avoid direct sunlight that can scorch fronds ❌
Don’t let soil dry out completely
Refrain from over-fertilizing
Don’t place in drafty or dry environments

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Lush shaded borderTropical-themed garden accentMoisture-loving groundcover

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Caladiums Begonias Elephant Ears

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Ladder Brake questions

What zones can Ladder Brake grow in?

Ladder Brake is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Ladder Brake deer resistant?

Yes — Ladder Brake is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

Does Ladder Brake need full sun?

Ladder Brake does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.