Maidenhair ferns (adiantum species) are one of the most popular houseplants available for sale, with many maidenhair ferns also being suitable for use as garden plants. Maidenhair ferns are sought after for the attractive lacy foliage.
All maidenhair ferns appreciate high humidity and moisture.
A few of the more popular species include
- Adiantum petatum is known as the ‘Northern Maidenhair Fern’ . With its attractive foliage Adiantum petatum does well in pots.
- Adiantum peruvianum or ‘silver dollar fern’ (picture right) is a larger leafed form, well worth seeking out.
- Adiantum capillus veneris is the ‘Southern Maidenhair Fern’.
- And if you can find it, why not try the rarest Maidenhair fern of all which is Adiantum tenerum farleyense. This one is a cultivar rather than a species and is from Barbados it does not easily propagate from spore like nearly all of the others.
Care
When grown indoors, Maidenhair ferns require filtered light and a constant temperature, try to keep them away from areas where temperature fluctuate. Adiantum gracillimum (New Zealand Maidenhair) is more cold tolerant than some others
Provide a humid environment by placing a pebble filled saucer beneath the pot and filling with water. But remember that Maidenhair ferns do not like to stand in water.
Fertilize Maidenhair ferns with a seaweed based fertilizer during spring and through to autumn.
In the garden try to obtain similar conditions, a cool shaded area that is not subject to winds. A humus rich moist soil is best.
Varieties
Maidenhair Fern Maidenhair ferns (with common names) include
- Adiantum aethiopicum (Common Maidenhair Fern)
- Adiantum pedatum (Northern Maidenhair Fern)
- Adiantum capillus veneris (Southern Maidenhair Fern)
- Adiantum aleuticum (Western Five fingered Fern)
- Adiantum anceps (Double Edge Maidenhair Fern)
- Adiantum formosum (Giant Maidenhair Fern or Australian Maidenhair Fern)
- Adiantum gracillimum (New Zealand Maidenhair) picture right.
- Adiantum venustum (Himalayan Maidenhair Fern)
- Adiantum raddianum (Delta Maidenhair Fern)
- Adiantum hispidulum (Rough maidenhair fern)
- Adiantum peruvianum (Silver dollar Fern, Peruvian Maidenhair Fern)
Propagation
- By division of clumps
- From spores
Where to buy
PRAIRIE MOON NURSERY phone: 507-452-1362
32115 Prairie Lane Winona MN 55987
Native seeds and Native Plants for Wetlands, Prairies, Meadows, Savannas and Woodlands
