Leaves will turn brown when temperatures drop below 40 degrees. Cinnamon fern is a little smaller ranging from 2 to 4 feet in height. Both have distinctive fertile fronds in spring that become cinnamon colored as they mature. Bracken fern is the most common native fern found throughout Florida, and it is not desirable. Leaves pop up sporadically throughout the landscape, and pulling will not got rid of it because it has a very deep rootstock.
Bracken fern is a major problem in pasture areas, because it is poisonous to livestock.
Spot treating with a non-selective herbicide is the best means of control. Just for the record, the common and popular asparagus fern is not a true fern, but is a member of the lily family. Asparagus ferns flower and produce red berries and unlike true ferns, can tolerate full sun. Terry Brite DelValle is a horticultural extension agent with the University of Florida and the city of Jacksonville. Enter words describing a concept or keywords.