Pteris grandifolia, commonly known as Elephantleaf Brake or Grand Fern, is a perennial herbaceous fern native to the tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, specifically Mexico to Brazil. It thrives in humid, shaded environments, often on forest floors or in crevices with ample organic matter. This fern exhibits a moderate growth rate, reaching a typical height and width of 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters), and is characterized by its large, arching fronds that can add a lush, tropical feel to a garden setting.

Elephantleaf Brake is valued for its large, showy fronds that bring a textural contrast to shaded garden areas. It is ideal for use in woodland gardens, as an understory plant in shaded borders, or in containers for patios and indoor settings. Gardeners appreciate its ease of maintenance and its ability to create a dense ground cover in suitable conditions. While it prefers part shade to full shade, it is adaptable to a range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils, provided they offer good drainage. Regular watering is important to mimic the moist conditions of its native habitat.CC BY-SA 4.0