Candy Striped Brake Fern (Pteris aspericaulis var. tricolor)

Candy Striped Brake Fern (Pteris aspericaulis var. tricolor) is a subtropical to tropical fern native to southeast Yunnan (China), Myanmar, Bhutan, and Sikkim (India), where it grows in humid forest environments. It is distinguished by its striking fronds that display three color phases—new fronds emerge reddish-bronze, gradually develop bronze and white banding, and finally mature to a deep green with white or cream central stripes. The leaf blades are pinnate to pinnatifid, giving the plant a delicate and graceful fern texture. Owing to its compact form and vivid coloration, it is a popular choice for indoor and terrarium plant collections.

Care Tips:

• Light: Provide bright, indirect light. Avoid harsh direct sunlight, which can scorch the fronds.

• Watering: Keep the soil consistently slightly moist—but not water-logged. Avoid allowing the plant to sit in standing water.

• Soil & Drainage: Use a well-draining potting mix with good moisture retention (for example with organic matter such as peat, coir or sphagnum) so the soil stays damp without becoming soggy.

• Humidity & Temperature: Enjoys moderate to high humidity; avoid very dry air. Keep temperatures in a comfortable indoor range (ideally above ~15 °C / ~59 °F).

• Fertilising & Repotting: In the growing period, feed with a balanced houseplant fertiliser. Repot when the plant has doubled in size or once a year.

• Common Issues & Prevention:

  • Under-watering leads to dry tips and browning of fronds.

  • Over-watering or poor drainage may lead to root problems and yellowing fronds.

  • Low humidity or direct heat sources (radiators, vents) can cause leaf tip browning.