The Maidenhair Fern is famous for its lush, bright green foliage which sprouts with small, delicate leaves on thin, branching stems. Each tiny ite-shaped leaf adds a point of graceful colour to the slender branches so the whole plant looks like a cloud of fresh greenery. This delicate fern loves moisture, and thrives with damp soil and above-average humidity - both of which help it stay happy and perky. If you love soft, tactile foliage and vivid colour - and giving your plants lots of TLC - this may be just the houseplant for you!
Scientific Name
Adiantum raddianum 'Fragrans' (unwetted plant, Raddi's species, cultivar: fragrant)
Synonyms: Adiantum cuneatum, Adiantum cuneipinnulum, Adiantum boliviense, Adiantum mexicanum, Adiantum werckleanum, Adiantum colpodes, Adiantum rubellum
This species' name was first published in 1836, replacing the previous classification of Adiantum cuneatum, and A. raddianum has been the accepted name since then.
Common Names
Maidenhair Fern, Delta Maidenhair Fern, Venus Hair Fern, Roseate Maidenhair Fern
Origin
Native across South and Central America, in wet tropical parts of: Northern Argentina, Bolivia, Central, Southern & Eastern Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Guatemala, Haiti, Southern Mexico, Nicaragua, Paraguay, Peru, Trinidad-Tobago, Uruguay, Venezuela and the Windward Islands of the Caribbean
Light
Your Maidenhair Fern can fry in direct sunlight, so make sure it is protected from the sun's rays whilst still getting a decent amount of indirect light. It is tolerant of low light, but can grow more slowly, with less vibrant foliage.
Water
Make sure the soil is consistently moist without being soggy. Water when the top of the soil starts to feel dry, and use room-temperature water where possible to avoid shocking the roots. You will need to water slightly less in winter.
Humidity
Maidenhair Ferns love humidity, so make sure they are not situated in dry air. Using a pebble tray can raise humidity around the plant, or they can do well in well-used kitchens and bathrooms.
Soil
Use a soil that retains moisture well whilst allowing excess water to drain. A mix designed for ferns, with sand to accommodate thin roots and plenty of coir and perlite for moisture retention and drainage, works well. Repot every year or two in Spring as the plant grows.
Food
Feed every four waters in the growing season, reduce to every six in autumn and winter.
Temperature
Ideally likes room temperatures of 12-26°C; make sure it doesn't drop below 8°C in winter.
Pet-safe
Yes, but too much nibbling won't be good for pets, small humans or the plant!
Sprouts Top Tips
To help this plant have enough humidity, you can group it with other houseplants or grow it in a cabinet or terrarium.
The leaves are good indicators of stress: crispy, browning tips usually indicate low humidity, while limp, yellowing foliage may suggest overwatering.
If the plant dries out completely, soak the pot in water for 10–15 minutes, drain well, and increase humidity to encourage recovery.
Regularly trim dead or dried fronds to keep the plant looking its best.
Extras
Maidenhair ferns can be sensitive to changes in environment, so try to keep conditions consistent. They're also known for their ability to bounce back after stress, as long as the roots remain healthy.
