BRACKEN

also called Brake, genus of ferns (Pteridium), the sole species (P. aquilinum) of which is widely distributed throughout the world in temperate and tropical regions. The species is represented by 12 varieties, 4 of which occur in North America and Great Britain. Variety pubescens grows from Alaska to Mexico, east to Wyoming, Colorado, and Texas. Variety latiusculum, growing also in northern Europe and eastern Asia, occurs from Newfoundland to Minnesota, south to Oklahoma and Tennessee. Variety pseudocaudatum grows from Massachusetts to Florida, west to Missouri and Texas. Variety caudatum, a West Indian plant, grows in southern Florida. Variety typica is common in Great Britain. This species has a perennial black rootstock, which creeps extensively underground and at intervals sends up fronds. The fronds may reach a height of 5 m (15 feet) or more and, although dying in autumn, often remain standing throughout the winter, affording in some regions cover for game. The fronds are used by humans for thatching and as fodder.