Pteris incompleta
Care, watering, light and tips for Pteris incompleta on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Pteridaceae
- Difficulty: Demanding
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Shade
- Temperature: 10–28 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Pteris incompleta
Pteris incompleta, also known as the Laurisilva Brake, is a perennial fern native to Macaronesia, particularly the laurisilva forests. Its deep green, delicate fronds form dense, elegant clumps, making it ideal for terrariums, shade gardens, or as an indoor plant in temperate climates. Its graceful habit and ability to thrive in humid environments make it a perfect green accent for high-humidity spaces.
Native range
Canary Islands and Madeira
Care tips
This fern prefers partial shade or bright indirect light; direct sunlight will scorch its delicate fronds. Keep the substrate consistently moist, but never waterlogged, and ensure a humid environment by misting regularly or placing it near a humidifier. Use an organic-rich, well-draining, and slightly acidic substrate. A common mistake is allowing the substrate to dry out completely between waterings, which can lead to dehydration and wilting of the fronds.
How to save a dying Pteris incompleta
- Warning signs
- Dry fronds, brown tips, limp or yellowing leaves. Consistently dry or waterlogged soil.
- First aid
- Move to a humid, shaded spot, water with distilled water if soil is dry, or check drainage if waterlogged. Mist fronds.
- What kills it
- Constant low humidity, direct sun, prolonged dry or waterlogged substrate.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots are not completely rotted or dried out. Act quickly to restore humidity and proper watering.