Overview

Adiantum aleuticum 'Imbricatum' is a clump forming ferns in the genus Adiantum, part of the Pteridaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.1-0.5 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Adiantum aleuticum 'Imbricatum' grows best in full shade and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden and patio and container plants.

About

This compact fern reaches a height of up to 20 cm and features dark stems supporting fan-shaped fronds that display a pale bluish-green hue. The leaf segments are arranged closely along the midrib. Young fronds may exhibit a pinkish tint as they emerge.

About the genus

Adiantum consists of ferns that may be either deciduous or evergreen, characterized by lustrous black stems. These ferns typically feature fronds that are either simple or, more commonly, divided pinnately. The individual segments can be fan-shaped, oblong, or rounded, and they produce spores beneath reflexed marginal flaps.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Adiantum

Sunlight
Full shade, Partial shade
Soil type
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H5

Plant details

Adiantum aleuticum 'Imbricatum' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Ferns
Habit
Clump forming
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
0.1-0.5 metres
Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Adiantum aleuticum 'Imbricatum'

Cultivation
Grows best in dappled shade in moist but well-drained soil, rich in organic matter with good drainage and shelter from cold winds
Pruning
No pruning required
Propagation
Propagate by spores as soon as ripe at minimum 15°C; propagate by division of rhizomes in early spring
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free though scale insects may be a problem under glass
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Adiantum aleuticum 'Imbricatum'?

Grows best in dappled shade in moist but well-drained soil, rich in organic matter with good drainage and shelter from cold winds.

Where is the best place to plant Adiantum aleuticum 'Imbricatum'?

Adiantum aleuticum 'Imbricatum' prefers full shade and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Adiantum aleuticum 'Imbricatum' need?

Adiantum aleuticum 'Imbricatum' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

How do I prune Adiantum aleuticum 'Imbricatum'?

No pruning required.

How big does Adiantum aleuticum 'Imbricatum' grow?

Adiantum aleuticum 'Imbricatum' reaches a height of 0.1-0.5 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.

Is Adiantum aleuticum 'Imbricatum' hardy in the UK?

Adiantum aleuticum 'Imbricatum' has a UK hardiness rating of H5.

How do I propagate Adiantum aleuticum 'Imbricatum'?

Propagate by spores as soon as ripe at minimum 15°C; propagate by division of rhizomes in early spring.