Glasshouse plants

Adiantum trapeziforme
Diamond maidenhair fern, giant maidenhair fern

Adiantum trapeziforme is native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America where it grows at low to medium altitudes on low hillsides and stream banks.

It is grown for its large and beautifully textured leaves; the fronds on mature plants can get up to 2m (6.5ft) long. The species name is derived from the trapezoidal (diamond) shape of the pinnules (leaflets), which can grow up to 5cm (2in) long.

The diamond maidenhair fern needs a position in full to dappled shade, and a temperatures between 15-30°C (60-86°F). Keep the compost constantly moist soil, reducing watering slightly in winter, otherwise the pinnules will dry up and fall off. Mist the foliage regularly to maintain a humid atmosphere, or stand the plant in a saucer full of damp pebbles or hydroleca. Plants can be fed every two to three weeks from March to September.

Geoff Hodge

< Back to The Glasshouse main page