Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum capillus-veneris)

Maidenhair Fern

Adiantum capillus-veneris

Delicate fronds catch light like floating lace. Evergreen fern; common name: Southern Maidenhair Fern.

Partial sun
2–3/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Bright indirect light; avoid direct midday sun which scorches delicate fronds
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Watering Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; use room-temperature water to prevent root shock
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Temperature Thrives in 15–22°C; avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature drops below 10°C
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Characteristics

  • Frond: Fine, black, wiry stalks bearing fan-shaped leaflets arranged in delicate, lacy clusters
  • Rhizome: Creeping, shallow, brownish underground stem that spreads slowly
  • Spores: Small, rounded sori produced on the underside of mature leaflets
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist; mist fronds 2–3 times weekly to maintain humidity

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed every 4 weeks. Use half-strength fertilizer to avoid burning sensitive roots

Banana peel compost tea:Compost banana peels for 2 weeks, steep in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 before applying to root zone to avoid nutrient burn
Pruning
  • Trim brown, damaged fronds at the base to maintain tidy growth
  • Remove dead fronds to improve airflow and reduce pest infestation risk
  • Divide overcrowded clumps in early spring to propagate and refresh soil
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA-verified non-toxic; no adverse effects reported for cats

Humans: No known toxic effects on humans; safe for handling and accidental ingestion

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental foliage for terrariums, shaded gardens, and indoor planters; historically used in herbal medicine for respiratory ailments