Adiantum capillus-veneris
southern maidenhair
A low-growing spreading fern with gently arching, twice divided elegant fronds supported on wiry black stems. Semi-evergreen in warm sheltered gardens or if grown as a houseplant
Other common names
black maidenhaircapillaire
see moredudder grass
Venus maidenhair
Venus's hair
maidenhair fern
Synonyms
Adiantum paradiseae
Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Neutral, AlkalineColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full shade
- Partial shade
Aspect
West–facing or East–facing or North–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H3Botanical details
- Family
- Pteridaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Semi evergreen or Deciduous
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Genus
Adiantum can be deciduous or evergreen ferns with shiny black stalks bearing simple or more usually pinnately divided fronds, the segments fan-shaped, oblong or rounded, carrying spores under reflexed marginal flaps
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Plant in a moist but free draining soil in partial shade. Makes an effective shady border edging in mild areas. Can also be grown as a houseplant. See how to grow ferns as houseplants for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by division or spores
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Houseplants
- Cottage and informal garden
- Low Maintenance
- Underplanting of roses and shrubs
- Ground cover
- Garden edging
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Can trim back any faded growth in winter if required or wait for new growth to start emerging in spring.
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.