Search Plants
Try for Free
English
About
Key Facts
How To Care
All Species
More Genus
Cliffbrakes (Pellaea)
Cliffbrakes are a genus of ferns with delicate fronds. They are widespread in the Americas, from arctic tundra to arid deserts. Some species, such as the purple-stem cliffbrake, have medicinal properties and are used to treat various conditions. Others, like the California cliffbrake, are popular in gardens and used in landscaping.
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Herb/Vine
Key Facts About Cliffbrakes
Feedback
Attributes of Cliffbrakes
Leaf type
Evergreen
Ideal Temperature
20 - 38 ℃
Scientific Classification of Cliffbrakes
How to Grow and Care for Cliffbrakes
Feedback
Cliffbrakes, a genus of ferns, presents low to moderate care needs. These semi-tropical plants prefer bright, indirect light and well-drained soil to thrive. Water needs vary within the genus, but generally they prefer evenly moist soil. Common challenges for cliffbrakes include scale insects, root rot due to overwatering, and leaf burn from direct sunlight. Seasonally, they need less water in winter and can be susceptible to cool drafts. Summertime sees increased growth requiring increased water and potentially more light.
How to Water Cliffbrakes?
What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Cliffbrakes?
How to Propagate Cliffbrakes?
How to Plant Cliffbrakes?
Exploring the Cliffbrakes Plants
Feedback
8 most common species：
Button fern
Button fern (Pellaea rotundifolia) is a fern species that are native to New Zealand. Button fern commonly grows in forests and is also often cultivated in gardens. This species grows best in acidic, well-drained soil.
California cliffbrake
California cliffbrake (Pellaea mucronata) has an appropriate name since it thrives on cliffs and in rocky habitats. This fleshy-leaved fern has some ornamental appeal as a plant for native rock gardens, and california cliffbrake attracts the moth species Pseudobryomima fallax.
Coffee cliffbrake
The Pellaea andromedifolia is found in the United States and Mexico, specifically California and Baja California. It is commonly called coffee cliffbrake and grows on dry shores, facing the west.
Purple cliffbrake
Purple cliffbrake is a fern native to North and Central America that grows on sunny, rocky terrain, and calcareous soil. It can be found on steep, open, south-facing prairies, as well. It is considered an endangered species in some U.S. states such as Florida and Iowa.
Trans-pecos cliffbrake
Trans-pecos cliffbrake (Pellaea ternifolia) is an herbaceous perennial that will grow to 30 cm tall. It is a weedy fern that is commonly found growing in disturbed sites and dry open areas. Reproduces by spores on the undersides of the leaves.
Western dwarf cliffbrake
The Pellaea glabella, commonly called western dwarf cliffbrake, is native to some parts of the United States. It usually produces fruits during the summer.
Ovateleaf cliffbrake
Ovateleaf cliffbrake (Pellaea ovata) prefers to grow along rocky slopes and ledges. It sprouts distinctively flat, blue-green leaves and reddish stems that form attractive, semi-geometric patterns. This species does not flower, instead reproducing via spores.
Brewer's cliffbrake
Pellaea breweri grows from a branching reddish-brown rhizome covered in hairlike scales. Each leaf is up to 20 or 25 centimeters long. It is composed of a shiny brown rachis lined with widely spaced leaflets. The thick, pale green leaflets vary in shape from lance-shaped to diamond, triangular, or spade-shaped, and are sometimes divided deeply into lobes, or into two smaller leaflets.
All Species of Cliffbrakes
Button fern
Button fern
Button fern (Pellaea rotundifolia) is a fern species that are native to New Zealand. Button fern commonly grows in forests and is also often cultivated in gardens. This species grows best in acidic, well-drained soil.
California cliffbrake
California cliffbrake
California cliffbrake (Pellaea mucronata) has an appropriate name since it thrives on cliffs and in rocky habitats. This fleshy-leaved fern has some ornamental appeal as a plant for native rock gardens, and california cliffbrake attracts the moth species Pseudobryomima fallax.
Coffee cliffbrake
Coffee cliffbrake
The Pellaea andromedifolia is found in the United States and Mexico, specifically California and Baja California. It is commonly called coffee cliffbrake and grows on dry shores, facing the west.
Purple cliffbrake
Purple cliffbrake
Purple cliffbrake is a fern native to North and Central America that grows on sunny, rocky terrain, and calcareous soil. It can be found on steep, open, south-facing prairies, as well. It is considered an endangered species in some U.S. states such as Florida and Iowa.
Trans-pecos cliffbrake
Trans-pecos cliffbrake
Trans-pecos cliffbrake (Pellaea ternifolia) is an herbaceous perennial that will grow to 30 cm tall. It is a weedy fern that is commonly found growing in disturbed sites and dry open areas. Reproduces by spores on the undersides of the leaves.
Western dwarf cliffbrake
Western dwarf cliffbrake
The Pellaea glabella, commonly called western dwarf cliffbrake, is native to some parts of the United States. It usually produces fruits during the summer.
Ovateleaf cliffbrake
Ovateleaf cliffbrake
Ovateleaf cliffbrake (Pellaea ovata) prefers to grow along rocky slopes and ledges. It sprouts distinctively flat, blue-green leaves and reddish stems that form attractive, semi-geometric patterns. This species does not flower, instead reproducing via spores.
Brewer's cliffbrake
Brewer's cliffbrake
Pellaea breweri grows from a branching reddish-brown rhizome covered in hairlike scales. Each leaf is up to 20 or 25 centimeters long. It is composed of a shiny brown rachis lined with widely spaced leaflets. The thick, pale green leaflets vary in shape from lance-shaped to diamond, triangular, or spade-shaped, and are sometimes divided deeply into lobes, or into two smaller leaflets.
Hard fern
Hard fern
The Kwena and Kgatla peoples use milk decoctions of the rhizome to calm frightened children at night.
Spiny cliff-brake
Spiny cliff-brake
The Pellaea truncata leaves are up to 40 centimeters long, the fertile leaves longer and more subdivided than the smaller, simpler sterile leaves. The leaf is composed of several leaflets which are each divided into several linear to oblong or pointed oval segments. The segments may have wavy edges, and the fertile ones have their edges rolled under. The sporangia are located under the edges.
Pellaea calidirupium
Pellaea calidirupium
Pellaea calidirupium is a resilient fern typically found clinging to the rocks in warm, arid regions. Its robust, blue-green fronds are often curved, resembling a sickle, with small, delicate leaflets that vary in shape. These fronds emerge from a compact central rhizome, allowing the plant to thrive even in the crevices of challenging environments. Pellaea calidirupium's distinctive curled foliage offers a stunning contrast against the rugged terrain it favors.
Intermediate cliffbrake
Intermediate cliffbrake
Intermediate cliffbrake is a resilient fern with striking blue-green, arching fronds, and delicate, segmented leaflets. These leaflets taper to a pointed tip, giving the frond a feather-like appearance. Thriving in rocky crevices and limestone substrates, intermediate cliffbrake exhibits a profound ability to adapt to sparse soils—drawing nutrients from hard-to-reach places. Its tough, wiry stems anchor it firmly, allowing survival in rugged terrains.
Bridges' cliffbrake
Bridges' cliffbrake
Bridges' cliffbrake is a resilient fern known for its delicate, arching fronds and compact growth habit. Preferring rocky substrates and sheltered crevices, this fern thrives where moisture and shade interplay. Its blue-green leaves contrast elegantly with dark stems, making bridges' cliffbrake a distinguished presence in its native woodland settings.
Sickle fern
Sickle fern
Sickle fern is a resilient fern with arching, sickle-shaped fronds. Its blue-green foliage thrives in dry rock crevices or on cliff faces, displaying its agility in adapting to arid environments. The segmented leaflets cling closely to the thin, wiry stems, contributing to the distinctive feathery appearance that charms plant enthusiasts and casual observers alike.
Pellaea leucomelas
Pellaea leucomelas
Pellaea leucomelas is a distinctive fern that thrives in rocky habitats. With its arching fronds and blue-green, segmented leaves, this species exhibits a cascading growth pattern. The leathery texture of the leaves, coupled with the plants' affinity for limestone substrates, reflects an adaptation to conserve water in sparse environments. Pellaea leucomelas's contrasting white rhizomes and dark leaflets make it a striking find among crevices and shaded rock faces.
Heartleaf cliffbrake
Heartleaf cliffbrake
Heartleaf cliffbrake is a resilient fern with leathery, heart-shaped leaves often clustered close to the ground. It thrives in rocky crevices and shaded cliff faces, a testament to its adaptability in less hospitable environments. The plant's fronds, which may have a faint bluish hue, unfurl gracefully to capture limited sunlight, a key characteristic distinguishing it from its peers.
Wright's cliffbrake
Wright's cliffbrake
Wright's cliffbrake is a resilient fern adapted to rocky environments, often found clinging to crevices with its deep, blue-green fronds. The curved leaves grow in compact, tidy rosettes that contrast with rugged terrain. Its durability is emphasized by its ability to thrive in sparse soil and withstand dry conditions, a testament to its desert heritage. Distinctly, the spore-producing structures dot the undersides of leaf segments, revealing its reproductive strategy amidst arid challenges.
Sierra cliffbrake
Sierra cliffbrake
Sierra cliffbrake is characterized by its compact, arching fronds which typically grow from rocky crevices in arid environments. Its short-winged rachises give a distinctive look to its ferny silhouette. Dark central stalks support rounded leaflets, reflecting sierra cliffbrake's adaptation to minimal water availability. This hardy plant thrives in challenging conditions where its water-saving adaptations are a significant advantage.
More Popular Genus
Feedback
Dracaena
Dracaena are popular house plants that are easy to grow. They can tolerate low-light conditions and require little watering. Their leaves range from variegated to dark green. Their characteristic traits include woody stems that grow slowly but offer a striking appearance for small spaces such as apartments or offices.
Fig trees
Fig trees have been cultivated in many regions for their fruits, particularly the common fig, F. carica. Most of the species have edible fruits, although the common fig is the only one of commercial value. Fig trees are also important food sources for wildlife in the tropics, including monkeys, bats, and insects.
Brambles
Brambles are members of the rose family, and there are hundreds of different types to be found throughout the European countryside. They have been culturally significant for centuries; Christian folklore stories hold that when the devil was thrown from heaven, he landed on a bramble bush. Their vigorous growth habit can tangle into native plants and take over.
Maples
The popular tree family known as maples change the color of their leaves in the fall. Many cultural traditions encourage people to watch the colors change, such as momijigari in Japan. Maples popular options for bonsai art. Alternately, their sap is used to create maple syrup.
Prunus
Prunus is a genus of flowering fruit trees that includes almonds, cherries, plums, peaches, nectarines, and apricots. These are often known as "stone fruits" because their pits are large seeds or "stones." When prunus trees are damaged, they exhibit "gummosis," a condition in which the tree's gum (similar to sap) is secreted to the bark to help heal external wounds.
Nightshades
Nightshades is a large and diverse genus of plants, with more than 1500 different types worldwide. This genus incorporates both important staple food crops like tomato, potato, and eggplant, but also dangerous poisonous plants from the nightshade family. The name was coined by Pliny the Elder almost two thousand years ago.
Roses
Most species of roses are shrubs or climbing plants that have showy flowers and sharp thorns. They are commonly cultivated for cut flowers or as ornamental plants in gardens due to their attractive appearance, pleasant fragrance, and cultural significance in many countries. The rose hips (fruits) can also be used in jams and teas.
Oaks
Oaks are among the world's longest-lived trees, sometimes growing for over 1,000 years! The oldest known oak tree is in the southern United States and is over 1,500 years old. Oaks produce an exceedingly popular type of wood which is used to make different products, from furniture and flooring to wine barrels and even cosmetic creams.
Continue reading in our app - it's better
A database of 400000+ plants and unlimited guides at your fingertips...
Your Ultimate Guide to Plants
Identify grow and nurture the better way!
17,000 local species +400,000 global species studied
Nearly 5 years of research
80+ scholars in botany and gardening
Botanist in your pocket
Scan the QR code with your phone camera to download the app
About
Key Facts
How To Care
All Species
More Genus
Cliffbrakes
Pellaea
Cliffbrakes are a genus of ferns with delicate fronds. They are widespread in the Americas, from arctic tundra to arid deserts. Some species, such as the purple-stem cliffbrake, have medicinal properties and are used to treat various conditions. Others, like the California cliffbrake, are popular in gardens and used in landscaping.
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Herb/Vine
Instantly identify plants with a snap
Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.
Download the App for Free
Key Facts About Cliffbrakes
Feedback
Attributes of Cliffbrakes
Leaf type
Evergreen
Ideal Temperature
20 - 38 ℃
Scientific Classification of Cliffbrakes
How to Grow and Care for Cliffbrakes
Feedback
Cliffbrakes, a genus of ferns, presents low to moderate care needs. These semi-tropical plants prefer bright, indirect light and well-drained soil to thrive. Water needs vary within the genus, but generally they prefer evenly moist soil. Common challenges for cliffbrakes include scale insects, root rot due to overwatering, and leaf burn from direct sunlight. Seasonally, they need less water in winter and can be susceptible to cool drafts. Summertime sees increased growth requiring increased water and potentially more light.
How to Water Cliffbrakes?
What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Cliffbrakes?
How to Propagate Cliffbrakes?
How to Plant Cliffbrakes?
Exploring the Cliffbrakes Plants
Feedback
8 most common species：
Button fern
Button fern (Pellaea rotundifolia) is a fern species that are native to New Zealand. Button fern commonly grows in forests and is also often cultivated in gardens. This species grows best in acidic, well-drained soil.
California cliffbrake
California cliffbrake (Pellaea mucronata) has an appropriate name since it thrives on cliffs and in rocky habitats. This fleshy-leaved fern has some ornamental appeal as a plant for native rock gardens, and california cliffbrake attracts the moth species Pseudobryomima fallax.
Coffee cliffbrake
The Pellaea andromedifolia is found in the United States and Mexico, specifically California and Baja California. It is commonly called coffee cliffbrake and grows on dry shores, facing the west.
Purple cliffbrake
Purple cliffbrake is a fern native to North and Central America that grows on sunny, rocky terrain, and calcareous soil. It can be found on steep, open, south-facing prairies, as well. It is considered an endangered species in some U.S. states such as Florida and Iowa.
Show More Species
All Species of Cliffbrakes
Button fern
California cliffbrake
Coffee cliffbrake
Purple cliffbrake
Trans-pecos cliffbrake
Western dwarf cliffbrake
Ovateleaf cliffbrake
Brewer's cliffbrake
Hard fern
Spiny cliff-brake
Pellaea calidirupium
Intermediate cliffbrake
Bridges' cliffbrake
Sickle fern
Pellaea leucomelas
Heartleaf cliffbrake
Wright's cliffbrake
Sierra cliffbrake
More Popular Genus
Feedback
Dracaena
Dracaena are popular house plants that are easy to grow. They can tolerate low-light conditions and require little watering. Their leaves range from variegated to dark green. Their characteristic traits include woody stems that grow slowly but offer a striking appearance for small spaces such as apartments or offices.
Fig trees
Fig trees have been cultivated in many regions for their fruits, particularly the common fig, F. carica. Most of the species have edible fruits, although the common fig is the only one of commercial value. Fig trees are also important food sources for wildlife in the tropics, including monkeys, bats, and insects.
Brambles
Brambles are members of the rose family, and there are hundreds of different types to be found throughout the European countryside. They have been culturally significant for centuries; Christian folklore stories hold that when the devil was thrown from heaven, he landed on a bramble bush. Their vigorous growth habit can tangle into native plants and take over.
Maples
The popular tree family known as maples change the color of their leaves in the fall. Many cultural traditions encourage people to watch the colors change, such as momijigari in Japan. Maples popular options for bonsai art. Alternately, their sap is used to create maple syrup.
Prunus
Prunus is a genus of flowering fruit trees that includes almonds, cherries, plums, peaches, nectarines, and apricots. These are often known as "stone fruits" because their pits are large seeds or "stones." When prunus trees are damaged, they exhibit "gummosis," a condition in which the tree's gum (similar to sap) is secreted to the bark to help heal external wounds.
Nightshades
Nightshades is a large and diverse genus of plants, with more than 1500 different types worldwide. This genus incorporates both important staple food crops like tomato, potato, and eggplant, but also dangerous poisonous plants from the nightshade family. The name was coined by Pliny the Elder almost two thousand years ago.
Roses
Most species of roses are shrubs or climbing plants that have showy flowers and sharp thorns. They are commonly cultivated for cut flowers or as ornamental plants in gardens due to their attractive appearance, pleasant fragrance, and cultural significance in many countries. The rose hips (fruits) can also be used in jams and teas.
Oaks
Oaks are among the world's longest-lived trees, sometimes growing for over 1,000 years! The oldest known oak tree is in the southern United States and is over 1,500 years old. Oaks produce an exceedingly popular type of wood which is used to make different products, from furniture and flooring to wine barrels and even cosmetic creams.
Your Ultimate Guide to Plants
Identify grow and nurture the better way!
17,000 local species +400,000 global species studied
Nearly 5 years of research
80+ scholars in botany and gardening
Continue reading in our app - it's better
A database of 400000+ plants
unlimited guides at your fingertips...
unlimited guides at your fingertips...
