Bracken  (Pteridium aquilinum)

Almost ubiquitous, bracken is extremely common throughout Britain, and its range has increased dramatically during the 20th century. It occurs around the world, with the exception of the Arctic and Antarctic regions (4).

This fern is found in moorland, hill pasture and a variety of other habitats with acidic soils. It particularly thrives on deep loams and sands, but is rare on alkaline soil; it has been found at heights of up to 585 m, but probably occurs higher than this in some areas (3).