Adiantum raddianum
Delta maidenhair fern
A tender evergreen fern about 60cm tall, the black-stalked, triangular fronds with rounded to triangular, variably lobed segments, the colouring a pale green initially, but darkening with age
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
Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H1CBotanical details
- Family
- Pteridaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Clump forming, Bushy
- 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
- Plant range
- Tropical America: W Indies
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow as a house or conservatory plant indoors in a peat-free houseplant compost. Position the container in bright, indirect light with good ventilation. Water freely and apply a half strength, general liquid feed monthly from mid spring to late summer. Provide high humidity by placing the container on a tray of moist gravel or pebbles. Water sparingly in winter. See how to grow ferns as houseplants for further information
Propagation
Propagate by sowing spores as soon as ripe at a minimum of 21°C, or propagate by division of the rhizomes in early spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- hanging basket
- Houseplants
- Sub-tropical
- Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning
Plant requires little pruning other than the removal of dead leaves
Pests
May be susceptible to scale insects
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.