Maidenhair Fern
Adiantum capillus-veneris
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Pl. 978F — Adiantum capillus-veneris
Adiantum capillus-venerisAdiantum capillus-venerisAdiantum capillus-venerisAdiantum capillus-venerisAdiantum capillus-venerisAdiantum capillus-venerisAdiantum capillus-venerisAdiantum capillus-venerisAdiantum capillus-venerisAdiantum capillus-venerisAdiantum capillus-venerisAdiantum capillus-venerisAdiantum capillus-venerisAdiantum capillus-veneris
IOverview
Overview
Maidenhair Fern, scientifically known as Adiantum capillus-veneris, is a delicate evergreen fern native to regions spanning from Europe and Asia to North America and Africa. It thrives in partial sun or shade, requiring moist conditions and well-draining soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). Hardy in zones 8-11, this fern grows up to 0.3 meters tall and is valued for its edible leaves, which can be used in various culinary applications. Its distinctive feature lies in the glossy black stems and finely divided fronds that give it a graceful appearance, making it a popular ornamental plant in gardens and greenhouses.
Quick answers
What is Maidenhair Fern?
Maidenhair Fern, scientifically known as Adiantum capillus-veneris, is a delicate evergreen fern native to regions spanning from Europe and Asia to North America and Africa. It thrives in partial sun or shade, requiring moist conditions and well-draining soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay).
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
The Maidenhair Fern thrives in partial sun to shade and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows well in hardiness zones 8-11, reaching a height of about 0.3 meters. For propagation, divide the plant or use spores. This fern can be grown for its edible leaves, making it a versatile addition to gardens and landscapes in temperate regions.
Light
Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
8-11
Mature size
0.3 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Maidenhair Fern for the first time
7steps
Start with a simple Maidenhair Fern and focus on basic care for the first few months.
- 1
What you'll need
A Maidenhair Fern plant, well-draining potting soil, a container with drainage holes.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or early summer when the weather is mild and stable.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a container that's at least 10 inches wide. Fill it with well-draining potting soil, ensuring good drainage.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant the Maidenhair Fern from its nursery pot into your prepared container, making sure not to damage the roots.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil consistently moist but avoid overwatering. Place it in a spot with partial shade.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly when the top inch of soil feels dry, and keep the plant in a bright, shady location. Mist the leaves occasionally to maintain humidity.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune any yellowing or damaged fronds to encourage new growth. Avoid cutting back too much at once.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: Drink, Tea
Other uses:Hair
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across4 continents· 30 native
Europe5 regions
native (5)AlbaniaBulgariaFrancePortugalSpain
Asia4 regions
native (4)BangladeshCambodiaChinaIndia
Americas3 regions
native (3)BahamasBelizeCuba
Africa6 regions
native (6)AlgeriaAngolaBotswanaCabo VerdeChadComoros
Broader regions
native:Arizona, Brazil North, Brazil South, British Columbia, California, Cape Provinces, Chile Central, Chile North, Colorado, Alabama
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 978f664c-efc0-44fe-8721-0ffb0dbca3c1
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