Adiantum comes from the Greek, meaning "not able to wet", referring to the fronds' ability to shed water.
Southern Maidenhair Fern
Venus Maidenhair Fern
Venus's Hair Fern
Adiantum plants are mostly of tropical origin and some are Western natives. They all form spreading climps over time with thin, dark, wiry stems. The fronds tend to be finely cut and the leaflets are mostly bright green, fan shaped. These plants need steady mosture and rich organic soil. A. capillus-veneris plants are native to North America and grow to heights of 1.5 feet tall.
| Plant Types: | Fern, Interior Plant, Perennial |
| Light: | Shade to Partial Sun |
| Height: | 1 foot to 1 foot 6 inches |
| Zones: | 8a to 11b |
| Leaf Color: | Green |
| Special Features: | Attractive foliage, Naturalizing, North American native |
| Shape: | Spreading or horizontal |
| Fertilizer: | Miracle-Gro® Liquid All Purpose Houseplant Food |
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Although Maidenhair Ferns can be propagated by spores, they are more often propagated by dividing the creeping rhizomes (underground stems). The rhizomes should be divided in early spring, just as they emerge. Plant the rhizome just below the surface of the soil in shade or partial shade.
Grows well under the canopies of trees as they do best with partial to full shade. Many Maidenhair Ferns die back and go dormant in the winter.
Like many ferns, Adiantums need ample water. Does best in soils rich with organic matter.
Susceptible to snails and slugs.