Plant Description

Adiantum aethiopicum

Adiantum aethiopicum

One of the best-known ferns is the dainty maiden hair fern, especially the common form is Adiantum aethiopicum (ht 30 cm). Its lacy leaflets are soft and fan-shaped, and held on dark stems. It spreads from a rhizome and will form a decent clump when happily sited. There is a 'giant' version called Adiantum formosum (ht 80 cm), with much larger foliage and black stems, and it has a similar rhizomatous growth habit. Both of these species are terrestrial native plants that can be seen growing in moist rainforest settings around Sydney. They are propagated in the wild by spores on their leaves, but it can also be propagated by careful division in autumn or winter. Like most ferns, maidenhair ferns grow best in full or partial shade, and likes a moist, well-drained soil, rich in organic matter. However, they can tolerate some dryness once established, especially if mulched well. They will appreciate the occasional deep soaking in summer and a spray of water over their foliage every so often. They like a protected position away from winds that can dry out their foliage. They can be grown in a pot or a basket. A self-watering pot is ideal to maintain the sol moisture the plant like. They need to have humidity provided when grown indoors, such as regular spraying with water from an atomiser. These ferns are sensitive to hard frost.

 

Adiantum aethiopicum
Plant Family: Adiantaceae

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