Maidenhair Fern
Adiantum raddianum and Adiantum spp.
Maidenhair fern has delicate, fan-shaped leaflets on thin, black, wiry stems, giving it a light, airy look. It needs constant moisture and humidity, but rewards care with beautiful soft growth.
Photo: Forest & Kim Starr · CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Essential Care Requirements
Light
Bright indirect light
Watering
High
Never let the soil dry out; even one dry day can crisp the fronds.
Soil
Moist, rich mix with leaf mould and cocopeat; pH 6.0–7.5.
Temperature and humidity
12–30 °C · High humidity
Feeding
Feed monthly with a quarter-strength fertilizer.
Pruning and propagation
Propagate by division
Cut dry fronds at the base; it regrows quickly.
Maidenhair fern is not toxic to people, cats or dogs.
Top Cultivation Tips
Grows naturally on damp walls and near wells.
Ideal for terrariums and bathrooms.
If it dries out, cut it back and keep it moist.
Avoid draughts and AC.
Common problems
Mealybugs
White, cottony insects that hide in leaf joints and under leaves, weakening plants and spreading easily to neighbours.
How to treat it →PestScale insects
Immobile, shell-covered insects that cling to stems and leaves, draining sap and weakening trees and houseplants.
How to treat it →DiseaseUnderwatering
Too little water makes plants wilt, crisp at the edges and drop leaves, flowers and fruit.
How to treat it →
