Gerald L. Klingaman
Family
Pteridaceae
Botanical Name
ADIANTUM capillus-veneris
Plant Common Name
Common Maidenhair Fern, Southern Maidenhair Fer
General Description
Delicate and shade-loving, southern maidenhair fern is a beautiful plant native to tropical and temperate regions throughout the world. This species is evergreen in tropical and subtropical areas and deciduous in temperate regions.
It's most admired for its small, fine fronds comprised of dainty, fan-shaped leaflets of light green that move in the slightest breeze. These are supported by glossy black stems that arise from short creeping rhizomes.
Southern maidenhair fern grows best in moist, shady locations and is tolerant of more difficult soil conditions to including clay-rich soils with moderately poor drainage. This fern makes a great addition to shady beds, woodland gardens and grows well in containers.
Characteristics
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AHS Heat Zone
12 - 8
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USDA Hardiness Zone
7 - 11
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Sunset Zone
H1, H2, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
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Plant Type
Fern
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Sun Exposure
Partial Shade, Full Shade
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Height
12"-18" / 30.5cm - 45.7cm
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Width
12"-24" / 30.5cm - 61.0cm
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Native To
World/Pandemic, United States, Southeastern United States, South-Central United States, Southwestern United States, Mexico, Central America, South America, Europe, Asia
Growing Conditions
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Soil pH
Neutral, Alkaline
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Soil Drainage
Average
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Soil type
Clay, Loam, Sand
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Growth Rate
Medium
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Water Requirements
Average Water, Ample Water
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Habit
Spreading
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Seasonal Interest
Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
Ornamental Features
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Flower Interest
None
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Foliage Color (Spring)
Light Green
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Foliage Color (Summer)
Light Green
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Foliage Color (Fall)
Light Green
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Foliage Color (Winter)
Light Green
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Fragrant Flowers
No
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Fragrant Fruit
No
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Fragrant Foliage
No
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Bark or Stem Fragrant
No
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Repeat Bloomer
No
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Showy Fruit
No
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Edible Fruit
No
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Showy Foliage
Yes
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Foliage Texture
Medium
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Foliage Sheen
Matte
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Evergreen
Yes
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Showy Bark
No
