To the untrained eye bracken and ostrich ferns can look very similar. But there are some key differences that can help you tell them apart.
For one bracken is a lot more common than ostrich ferns. They’re found all over the world in temperate and subtropical regions whereas ostrich ferns are mostly found in North America.
Bracken also has a more robust root system with thick leathery rhizomes that can extend up to 3 meters (10 feet) underground. Ostrich ferns on the other hand have thinner more delicate roots.
Another way to tell them apart is by looking at the fronds (leaves). Bracken fronds are usually shorter and thicker than ostrich fern fronds and they’re arranged in a more compact clustered formation. Ostrich fern fronds on the other hand are longer and thinner and they’re more widely spaced out.
Finally you can also look at the spores. Bracken spores are typically brown while ostrich fern spores are usually a greenish-brown.
So next time you’re out for a walk in the woods and you spot a fern take a closer look to see if it’s a bracken or an ostrich fern. With a little practice you’ll be able to tell them apart with ease!
What are the identifying characteristics of bracken?
Bracken typically has three broad leathery leaves which arise from a common point on a thick woody stem.
The leaves are arranged in a spiral and are slightly toothed at the edges.
The leaflets are typically 10-30 cm long and 2-8 cm broad.
How does bracken differ from ostrich ferns?
Ostrich ferns have a similar growth form to bracken but their leaves are narrower and more delicate.
They also lack the toothed edges on the leaflets.
Where do bracken and ostrich ferns grow?
Bracken is found in woods on heaths and on moors throughout the UK while ostrich ferns are found in damp woods and on shady banks.
What time of year do bracken and ostrich ferns appear?
Bracken appears in late spring while ostrich ferns appear in early spring.
How do you control bracken growth?
Bracken can be controlled by physical removal by grazing or by chemical treatment.
What are the dangers of bracken?
Bracken is damaging to ecosystems because it invades and crowds out other plants.
It also harbors pests and diseases and can be toxic to livestock.
What are the benefits of bracken?
Bracken can be used for animal bedding and for mulch.
It is also sometimes used in traditional medicine.
What is the best time to collect bracken?
The best time to collect bracken is in late summer or early fall after the ferns have died back.
How do you dry bracken?
Bracken can be dried by hanging it in bundles in a well-ventilated place.
What is bracken used for?
Bracken can be used for animal bedding mulch or traditional medicine.
How does bracken affect livestock?
Bracken can be toxic to livestock if they eat large amounts of it.
What diseases does bracken carry?
Bracken can harbor pests and diseases.
How does bracken affect ecosystems?
Bracken is damaging to ecosystems because it invades and crowds out other plants.
What is the best way to control bracken growth?
Bracken can be controlled by physical removal by grazing or by chemical treatment.
What is the traditional use of bracken?
Bracken is sometimes used in traditional medicine.
