Pteris vittata
Ladder brake
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Family: Pteridaceae · Type: Herb · Not Native
Pteris vittata (Ladder brake) is a non-native California herb in the Pteridaceae family, recognized by many pinnae pairs (12-20+) with proximal pinnae smaller than others.
Ladder brake is a naturalized perennial fern found in the southern California Coast Ranges at elevations of 400 to 800 meters in moist rock walls, rock crevices, and streamsides in both sunny and shaded environments. With a distinctive growth habit, this fern develops a stout, short-creeping rhizome that supports large fronds reaching 30 to 75 centimeters tall. Its medium to dull green blade is intricately one-pinnate, with 12 to 20 pairs of pinnae that are finely serrate along the edges, creating a ladder-like appearance. The fern's fronds are characterized by a stipe (leaf stalk) shorter than the blade, which is notably scaly, especially near the base. This adaptable fern thrives in diverse moisture-rich habitats, demonstrating its resilience in rocky and damp ecological niches.
Identification and appearance
Key characters: 2 sympatric species; key features are many pinnae pairs (12-20+) with proximal pinnae smaller than others
Habitat and range
Habitat: Moist rock walls, rock crevices, streamsides, seeps, sun or shade
Elevation: 400-800 m
Outside California: southeastern United States, widely introduced, native to Asia
How to tell it apart
vs Woodwardia: Pteris has continuous spore lines along veins; Woodwardia has chain-like rows of spore cases.; vs Chlorophytum: Pteris is a fern; Chlorophytum is a flowering plant with grass-like leaves and white flowers.; vs Agapanthus: Pteris is a fern with divided fronds; Agapanthus has strap-like leaves and blue/white flower clusters.; vs Phoenix: Pteris has soft fern fronds; Phoenix is a palm with stiff, spiny-based leaflets.; vs Polystichum: Pteris has thick brown/green stems and no scales; Polystichum has thin stems with brown scales.
Frequently asked questions
Is Pteris vittata native to California?
No. Pteris vittata is not native to California (recorded as not native).
What plant family does Pteris vittata belong to?
Pteris vittata is in the Pteridaceae family, genus Pteris.
What habitat does Pteris vittata grow in?
Pteris vittata grows in Moist rock walls, rock crevices, streamsides, seeps, sun or shade.
Related species
Other California species in the same genus, family, or bioregion.
Sources: Jepson eFlora · CalPhotos
Last updated 2026-10-07
Data from The California Species Project — 14,000+ California species with verified data from CNPS, CDFW, USFWS, Cal-IPC, and more.