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
Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
10–20 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| 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
H7Botanical 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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