Overview
Adiantum pedatum is a plant with a bushy, clump forming habit in the genus Adiantum, part of the Pteridaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Adiantum pedatum 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, patio and container plants and rock garden.
About
Adiantum pedatum, the northern maidenhair fern, is a species of fern in the family Pteridaceae, native to moist forests in eastern North America. Like other ferns in the genus, the name maidenhair refers to the slender, shining black stipes.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Adiantum pedatum
About the genus
Adiantum, the maidenhair fern, is a genus of about 250 species of ferns in the subfamily Vittarioideae of the family Pteridaceae, though some researchers place it in its own family, Adiantaceae. The genus name comes from Greek, meaning "unwetted", referring to the fronds' ability to shed water without becoming wet.
Wikipedia contributors, "Adiantum", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Adiantum
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, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Adiantum pedatum size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Bushy, Clump forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Rock garden
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Adiantum pedatum
- Propagation
- Spores, Division of rhizomes
- Pest resistance
- Scale insects under glass
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Adiantum pedatum?
Adiantum pedatum prefers full shade and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Adiantum pedatum need?
Adiantum pedatum 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 pedatum hardy in the UK?
Adiantum pedatum has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Adiantum pedatum?
Spores, Division of rhizomes.
More in the Adiantum genus
Browse all Adiantum →
Last updated