Candy Stripe Brake Fern is a tropical, compact fern known for vibrant, color-changing fronds that emerge bronze-pink and mature to deep green with white, candy-striped centers — often showing pink, bronze, and green shades simultaneously as new growth emerges. Excellent for terrariums and humid bathrooms.
| Skill Level |
Moderate |
| Light |
Medium (bright indirect or partial sun; protect from harsh direct sun to avoid scorching) |
| Humidity |
High — mist frequently or use a pebble tray |
| Soil / Substrate |
Well-draining, peat-based mix |
| Type |
Fern (Terrestrial/Terrarium) |
| Max Height |
12-14" |
| Placement |
Foreground to Midground |
| Origin |
Asia (Pteris genus) |
| Other |
A moderate grower. Toxicity note: sources conflict — the ASPCA lists Pteris (brake fern) species as potentially toxic to pets (risk of thiamine deficiency if ingested), while some retailers list it as non-toxic. Treat as pet-unsafe out of caution. |
Care & Planting: Plant in a well-draining, peat-based mix. Keep consistently moist but never waterlogged. Feed monthly with a diluted, balanced fertilizer during spring and summer.