Overview
Adiantum capillus-veneris var. fissum is a clump forming ferns in the genus Adiantum, part of the Pteridaceae family, with deciduous, semi evergreen foliage. Adiantum capillus-veneris var. fissum grows best in full shade and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens, cottage and informal garden, patio and container plants, low maintenance, flower borders and beds and underplanting of roses and shrubs.
About
Adiantum capillus-veneris var. fissum is a cultivar of the Adiantum genus, which comprises deciduous or semi-evergreen ferns known for their lustrous black stems and pinnately divided fronds. This clump-forming fern thrives in moist, well-drained, humus-rich soils under full or partial shade, favouring sheltered, south-, east-, or west-facing aspects. Suitable for a variety of garden settings including city courtyards, cottage gardens, and underplanting of roses and shrubs, it offers seasonal interest in spring and summer. Propagation is achieved through spores or division, making it a versatile choice for low-maintenance planting.
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
- South-facing, East-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Adiantum capillus-veneris var. fissum size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Ferns
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous, Semi evergreen
- Suggested uses
- City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Low Maintenance, Flower borders and beds, Underplanting of roses and shrubs
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Adiantum capillus-veneris var. fissum
- Propagation
- Spores, Division
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free outdoors; may be susceptible to scale insects under glass
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Adiantum capillus-veneris var. fissum?
Adiantum capillus-veneris var. fissum prefers full shade and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Adiantum capillus-veneris var. fissum need?
Adiantum capillus-veneris var. fissum 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.
Is Adiantum capillus-veneris var. fissum hardy in the UK?
Adiantum capillus-veneris var. fissum has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.
How do I propagate Adiantum capillus-veneris var. fissum?
Spores, Division.
More in the Adiantum genus
- Adiantum aethiopicumcommon maidenhair fern

- Adiantum bellum
- Adiantum diaphanumfilmy maidenhair

- Adiantum formosumgiant maidenhair fern

- Adiantum reniforme
- Adiantum tenerum 'Farleyense'brittle maidenhair fern 'Farleyense'
- Adiantum tenerum 'Green Glory'
- Adiantum platyphyllum