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Adiantum venustum

evergreen maidenhair

A deciduous fern, almost evergreen in mild areas, with a thin, creeping rhizome, forming a mat to 25cm in height, with ovate fronds composed of many small fan-shaped segments, often turning an attractive rusty-brown in autumn and winter

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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
10–20 years
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Black Green
Summer Black Green
Autumn Black Brown Orange
Winter Black Brown Orange
Position
  • Full shade
  • Partial shade
Aspect

South–facing or East–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H7
Botanical details
Family
Pteridaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Semi evergreen
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

Plant range
Afghanistan to China

How to grow

Cultivation

Outdoors grow in moderately fertile soil. Under glass grow in a mix of 1 part each of loam, medium grade bark, charcoal and lime chippings; 2 parts sharp sand; 3 parts leaf mould. Provide bright filtered light in medium to high humidity with good ventilation. When in growth apply a half strength balanced liquid fertiliser monthly. Remove damaged fronds in spring. See how to grow ferns for further advice

Propagation

Propagate by spores

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Low Maintenance
  • Underplanting of roses and shrubs
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to scale insects under glass

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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