Pteris altissima, commonly known as Tall Brake Fern, is a perennial herbaceous fern native to the understory of tropical and subtropical forests, as well as moist areas along stream banks and in damp gullies throughout Mexico and Central America. It typically grows at a moderate rate to a height of 1.6-3.2 feet (0.49-1 meter) and a width of 1.5-2.5 feet (0.5-0.8 meters). The fern has a lush, upright growth habit with long, arching fronds that are divided into numerous leaflets, giving it a feathery appearance. The fronds are light to medium green and can provide a delicate texture to shaded garden areas.

Tall Brake Fern is valued for its ability to thrive in shaded conditions, making it an excellent choice for woodland gardens, shaded borders, or as an understory plant in tropical-themed landscapes. It is also suitable for container planting, where its elegant fronds can be appreciated up close. This fern prefers consistently moist soil and high humidity, which mimics its natural rainforest habitat. It is relatively low maintenance but may require additional watering during dry periods. While it is not prone to serious pests or diseases, it can suffer from root rot if the soil is too wet. It is important to note that Pteris species can be toxic if ingested, so caution should be exercised if planting in areas accessible to pets or children.CC BY-SA 4.0