Purple Cliff Brake
pellaea atropurpurea
Also known as: ["Rock Fern","Purple Cliff Fern"]
Overview
A hardy, evergreen fern with dark green, leathery fronds and a purple tinge on the undersides, native to rocky, arid environments.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Polypodiopsida |
| Order: | Pteridophytales |
| Family: | Pteridaceae |
| Genus: | Pellaea |
| Botanical Name: | Pellaea atropurpurea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: shady rock garden or indoor pot in a cool, humid environment
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly alkaline soil mix with sand or perlite for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 1–2 months during growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than 20% of foliage at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates some direct morning sun but prefers shade from intense afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, slightly alkaline soil with added perlite or sand
pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to slightly alkaline).
Use a cactus mix as a base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid prolonged exposure below 50°F (10°C).
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; keep away from heating/cooling vents; maintain consistent room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during active growth, using a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; apply to moist soil; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Spore propagation or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Collect spores or divide rhizomes.
- Prepare medium.
- Plant spores or rhizomes.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for germination or rooting.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%); warm temperatures (65–75°F); indirect light.
Medium
Sphagnum moss or sterile seed-starting mix with perlite.
Hormone
Not required for spores; rooting hormone may aid rhizome division.
Timeline
Spores may take 1–3 months to germinate; rhizome division roots in 2–4 weeks.
Tools Needed
Spore collection kit, sharp knife, sterile pots, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use a heat mat for consistent warmth; keep spore containers closed to retain humidity; label new plants immediately.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip individual fronds at the base; avoid cutting into healthy tissue.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged fronds to maintain appearance and health; occasional shaping to control size.
Tools
Sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged fronds; avoid over-pruning; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for soil refreshment and growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water until drainage occurs; discard excess water; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress); wilting or browning leaf tips (heat stress).
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid drafty areas.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown tips; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest Pellaea atropurpurea may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause mild distress in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Pellaea atropurpurea may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort in pets.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicPellaea atropurpurea contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress upon ingestion. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can lead to discomfort in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much light does Pellaea atropurpurea need?
A: It thrives in partial to full shade, avoiding direct sunlight.
Q: Is Pellaea atropurpurea pet-friendly?
A: Yes, it is non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Q: How often should I water Pellaea atropurpurea?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings, as it is drought-tolerant.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Pteridaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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