Pteris cretica 'Wu Wu'
fern

Cretan Brake Fern Wu Wu

Pteris cretica 'Wu Wu'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated
Real-Time Pricing
Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Fern

Height

18 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

9

Water

Consistently moist soil

Humidity

Prefers high humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe, Asia, and Africa

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Pteris cretica, the Cretan brake fern, is an evergreen fern with pinnate fronds, often featuring variegated leaflets. This cultivar is distinguished by its particularly dense and vibrant foliage, adding a striking texture and lushness to shaded gardens or indoor plant collections.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesCreates lush, green foliage that adds texture to shaded areas.
Practical UsesHelps retain soil moisture and prevent erosion in shady garden spots.
Ecological BenefitsProvides habitat for beneficial insects and small wildlife.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck fern spores or divisions into moist soil
  2. Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy
  3. Mist fronds during dry periods for humidity
  4. Place in partial shade for best growth
  5. Mulch lightly to retain moisture
  6. Watch for pests like scale and treat organically

Pro Tip

Ensure soil remains consistently moist for healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water frequently to keep soil moist ๐ŸŒฑ
  • Place in partial shade for optimal growth
  • Mulch to retain moisture

Don't

  • Avoid direct, harsh sunlight โŒ
  • Do not let soil dry out completely
  • Avoid over-fertilizing

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Divide
Fertilize
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland borderMoisture-loving garden bed

Companion Plants

Hostas Caladium Astilbe Ferns

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Cretan Brake Fern Wu Wu questions

What zones can Cretan Brake Fern Wu Wu grow in?

Cretan Brake Fern Wu Wu is hardy in USDA Zones 9โ€“10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Cretan Brake Fern Wu Wu deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Cretan Brake Fern Wu Wu, especially tender spring growth โ€” plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Cretan Brake Fern Wu Wu bloom?

Cretan Brake Fern Wu Wu typically blooms in early spring through early spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone โ€” Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Cretan Brake Fern Wu Wu need full sun?

Cretan Brake Fern Wu Wu does best in part shade.

Keep exploring

Explore the genus

Collections featuring this plant

Hardy in your zone?

Grow Cretan Brake Fern Wu Wu with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

Download Sow on the App StoreGet Sow on Google Play