maidenhair fern
Adiantum capillus-veneris
USDA zones5 to 8
SunHandles partial sun to full shade
WaterHandles moderate to wet soil
Size9 to 18 inches tall9 to 18 inches wide
- Growth rate
- Moderate
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer, autumn
- Bloom color
- Not applicable
- Foliage color
- Green
- Soil types
- Sand, loam, clay, chalk
- Soil pH
- Alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Notes
Maidenhair fern (Adiantum capillus-veneris) is a fern for borders, containers, shade gardens, and ground cover. It is hardy to USDA zone 5, or down to -20°F (-29°C). This plant likes part sun to full shade and average to wet soil of most types. Its fine, lacy fronds rise in clusters from creeping rhizomes. Keep the soil moist all year, because the fern goes dormant by July without watering. Deer usually look elsewhere for a meal.
Pairs well with Toad lily, Aureola Japanese forest grass, and Bloodroot.
Native range
Temperate and tropical regions worldwide.