Hybridization is an important mechanism in diversification. It often makes taxonomy difficult. Lack of strong supported intrageneric classification in genus Pteris (Pteridaceae) could be caused by natural hybridization. Most hybridization documnted in Pteris was based on limited evidence. This study focuses on Pteris cadieri complex, the taxon with putative hybridization. The species complex displayed significant morphological variation and was associated with hybrid origin. Reproductive biology revealed variation in spore number per sporangium, spore size, spore shape and apogamous reproduction, which imply its hybrid origin. Cytology analysis using chromosome counting and flow cytometry identified diploids, triploids, and tetraploids. CpDNA and nuclear DNA supported that Pteris cadieri complex is hybrid origin: paternal and maternal lineages were inferred and 11 taxa were identified. Furthermore, comparing materials form Hainan and Taiwan, , it is clear that the species complex is composed by taxa arisen from multiple hybridization. Systematic inconsistency existed between chloroplast and nuclear phylogenies in Pteris impled that other taxa might have involved in hybridization events, in addition to the Pteris cadieri complex. Hybridization may be very common in Pteris. To infer intrageneric taxonomy of Pteris, effect of reticulate evolution should never be neglected. Finally, based on morphological and evolutionary traits, the taxonomy of Pteris cadieri complex is revised. There are Pteris cadieri Christ, Pteris dimorpha Copel. var. dimorpha, Pteris dimorpha var. plumbea (Christ) Y.-S. Chao, H.-Y. Liu & W.-L. Chiou, Pteris grevilleana Wall. ex Agardh var. grevilleanan, Pteris grevilleana Wall. ex Agardh var. ornata Alderw., and Pteris hainanensis Ching.