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Adiantum capillus-veneris

maidenhair fern

A low-growing spreading fern with gently arching, twice divided elegant fronds supported on wiry black stems. Semi-evergreen in warm sheltered gardens or if grown as a houseplant

Other common names
black maidenhair
capillaire
see moredudder grass
Venus maidenhair
Venus's hair
maidenhair fern
Synonyms
Adiantum paradiseae
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Clay
Loam
Chalk
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Neutral, Alkaline
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Green
Autumn Green
Winter
Position
  • Full shade
  • Partial shade
Aspect

West–facing or East–facing or ±·´Ç°ù³Ù³ó–f²¹³¦¾±²Ô²µ

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H3
Botanical details
Family
Pteridaceae
Native to the UK
Yes
Foliage
Semi evergreen or Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming
Genus

Adiantum can be deciduous or evergreen ferns with shiny black stalks bearing simple or more usually pinnately divided fronds, the segments fan-shaped, oblong or rounded, carrying spores under reflexed marginal flaps

Name status

Correct

How to grow

Cultivation

Plant in a moist but free draining soil in partial shade. Makes an effective shady border edging in mild areas. Can also be grown as a houseplant. See how to grow ferns as houseplants for further advice

Propagation

Propagate by division or spores

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Houseplants
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Low Maintenance
  • Underplanting of roses and shrubs
  • Ground cover
  • Garden edging
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

Can trim back any faded growth in winter if required or wait for new growth to start emerging in spring.

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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