Peruvian Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum peruvianum)

Peruvian Maidenhair Fern

Adiantum peruvianum

Its fronds unfurl like delicate silver fans, soft and airy. Evergreen clumping 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 can scorch delicate fronds
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Watering Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; use room-temperature filtered water to prevent leaf tip browning
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Temperature Thrives in warm, stable temperatures; avoid cold drafts and temperatures below 12°C
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Characteristics

  • Frond: Triangular, finely divided pinnae with silvery rounded leaflets; supported by thin, wiry black stems
  • Rhizome: Short, creeping underground rhizome that spreads slowly
  • Sori: Spore-producing structures on leaflet undersides, covered by folded leaf margins
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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. Cease fertilizing in autumn and winter when growth slows

Banana peel compost tea:Compost banana peels for 2 weeks, steep in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 for root drench to avoid nutrient burn
Pruning
  • Remove brown, dried fronds at the base to improve airflow and appearance
  • Trim overcrowded clumps in early spring to encourage new frond growth
  • Gently remove yellowing fronds to prevent fungal spore spread
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic; no harmful effects if ingested or touched

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse health effects from ingestion or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental indoor foliage for terrariums, bathrooms, or shaded garden beds in humid climates