Family: Pteridaceae
Author: Poir.
Bibliography: J.B.A.M.de Lamarck, Encycl. 5: 722 (1804)
Year: 1804
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Pteris
Vegetable: False
Observations: Mexico to Trop. America
Description
Tall brake, scientifically known as Pteris altissima, is a compelling fern species belonging to the Pteridaceae family. Originally documented by the esteemed botanist J.B.A.M. de Lamarck in the Encyclopédie Méthodique in 1804 and further elucidated by Poiret (Poir.), this plant holds a notable place in botanical literature and history.
As one traverses from Mexico to the tropical regions of America, one can encounter the Tall brake flourishing in diverse habitats. Its adaptability to various environments contributes to its widespread presence in these geographical areas. The plant is distinguished by its tall, graceful fronds that arch elegantly, making it a conspicuous and attractive addition to the fern family.
From a structural standpoint, the Tall brake exhibits robust growth, often reaching impressive heights that inspire its common name. The fronds, typically characterized by their delicate, feathery appearance, embody the quintessential elegance of ferns, drawing the admiration of botanists and plant enthusiasts alike.
Ecologically, Pteris altissima plays a vital role in its native habitats. It contributes to the overall health of the ecosystem, offering shelter and sustenance to various microfauna. Its presence in tropical forests enhances the biodiversity of these rich, vibrant ecosystems.
Beyond its ecological significance, the Tall brake is also of interest for horticultural purposes. Gardeners and landscapers value it for its ornamental appeal. Its ability to thrive in shaded areas makes it an ideal candidate for gardens that aim to recreate the serene ambiance of a natural forest understorey.
In conclusion, the Tall brake (Pteris altissima) stands out not only for its aesthetic charm but also for its ecological contributions. With a historical backdrop dating back to early 19th-century botanical documentation, this fern continues to capture the interest and admiration of those who study and cultivate it. Its widespread presence from Mexico to tropical America is a testament to its resilience and adaptability in diverse environments.
Common Names
Eng: tall brake
En: Tall brake
Synonyms
- Pteris podophylla (Kunze)
- Pteris kunzeana var. polita (J.Bommer)
- Pteris elata (J.Agardh)
- Pteris lata (Kaulf. ex Link)
- Litobrochia altissima (Fée)
- Litobrochia schiedeana (C.Presl)
- Pteris sterilis (C.Presl)
- Litobrochia arborescens (Fée)
- Pteris deflexa var. lata (Luetzelb.)
- Pteris grandis (Hook.)
- Litobrochia karsteniana (Fée)
- Litobrochia elata (Fée)
- Pteris kunzeana (J.Agardh)
- Litobrochia kunzeana (Fée)
- Pteris altissima var. karsteniana (Hieron.)
- Pteris protea (Liebm.)
- Pteris macroptera (Link)
- Litobrochia macroptera (J.Sm.)
- Pteris schiedeana (Ettingsh.)
- Pteris elata var. karsteniana (Kunze)
- Pteris intermedia (Kaulf.)
- Litobrochia intermedia (C.Presl)
Distribution
- Belize (native)
- Bolivia (native)
- Brazil North (native)
- Brazil Northeast (native)
- Brazil South (native)
- Brazil Southeast (native)
- Colombia (native)
- Costa Rica (native)
- Cuba (native)
- Dominican Republic (native)
- Ecuador (native)
- El Salvador (native)
- French Guiana (native)
- Guatemala (native)
- Guyana (native)
- Haiti (native)
- Honduras (native)
- Jamaica (native)
- Leeward Is. (native)
- Mexico Central (native)
- Mexico Gulf (native)
- Mexico Northeast (native)
- Mexico Southeast (native)
- Mexico Southwest (native)
- Nicaragua (native)
- Panamá (native)
- Paraguay (native)
- Peru (native)
- Puerto Rico (native)
- Suriname (native)
- Venezuela (native)
- Windward Is. (native)
Additional Images
Leaf
Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – O. Vargas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – O. Vargas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – O. Vargas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jul 4, 2021 by Durán Carlos (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 4, 2015 by Frank Hübner (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – O. Vargas (cc-by-nc-sa)
Other
Taken Oct 20, 2015 by OTS – Chaves-Fallas, José Miguel (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Oct 20, 2015 by OTS – Chaves-Fallas, José Miguel (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Oct 20, 2015 by OTS – Chaves-Fallas, José Miguel (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Oct 20, 2015 by OTS – Chaves-Fallas, José Miguel (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – M. Jones (cc-by-nc-sa)
Habit
Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – O. Vargas (cc-by-nc-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5275403)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:17210470-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Pteris altissima Poir.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb
