Southern maidenhair fern - Adiantum capillus-veneris (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images)

Southern maidenhair fern

Also known as: Venus maidenhair fern, Black maidenhair fern, Venus' hair fern

The southern maidenhair fern is known for its extract, which is often used to make an oil that is an ingredient in shampoo. The fern is also unique because it can shed water without feeling wet. These plants are easy to grow in shade or bright indirect light and thrive in moist but not soggy soil.

Scientific classification

Species

Southern maidenhair fern (Adiantum capillus-veneris)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Fern

Plant Type

Summer

Harvest Time

15 cm to 30 cm

Plant Height

30 cm to 45 cm

Spread

Green, Yellow, Gold

Leaf Color

Gray

Fruit Color

Green, Purple, Brown, Black

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Southern maidenhair fern

Attributes of Southern maidenhair fern

Growth Rate

Moderately growing in Spring and Summer, southern maidenhair fern demonstrates observable surges in frond production and expansion, with young, tender fronds uncoiling in a delightful display of growth. This speed aligns with the warm and humid conditions, enhancing its delicate and feathery form. A quicker pace in full shade might occur, illustrating its adaptability to darker environments, making it an intriguing fern among botanical enthusiasts.

Distribution of Southern maidenhair fern

Distribution Map

Southern maidenhair fern is native to a wide range of environments across the subtropical and tropical regions, as well as temperate zones globally. It is indigenous to parts of Africa, Asia, Europe, Australasia, and the Americas, specifically thriving in areas with a Mediterranean climate. Beyond its natural range, southern maidenhair fern has been introduced to a selection of temperate zones. The plant is also cultivated, extending its presence beyond its original distribution.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Rock crevices, cliffs by the sea

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Southern maidenhair fern is a slow-growing fern suitable for rock and woodland gardens, as well as shady borders and beds, where it can provide lush ground or wall cover that is resistant to diseases, pests, and deer. It is also highly suitable as a container plant.

Symbolism

Elegant, feminine

Interesting Facts

Southern maidenhair fern leaves are thin and light green, with black and shiny petioles. The black petioles resemble human hair. It looks like the soft hair of a young girl with its soft texture, which is particularly graceful and elegant.

Name Story

Southern maidenhair||Southern maidenhair fern||Venus hair fern: The specific Latin epithet "capillus-veneris" in Adiantum capillus-veneris means the hair of the ancient Greek goddess Venus. The plant is known by the common name southern maidenhair fern. Both names refer to the delicate, hairy stalks of the plant.

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Quickly Identify Southern maidenhair fern

Delicate, decompound fronds in a single plane

Bright green, lobed pinnules with unique marginal sori

Shiny black or purple-tinted wiry stipe

Bipinnate or tripinnate leaves with fan-shaped segments

Membranous texture with weakly glaucous undersides

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Care Guide for Southern maidenhair fern

Twice per week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Potting Mix, Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Southern maidenhair fern thrives in humid environments and prefers consistent moisture, requiring watering twice a week. Typically grown indoors, it flourishes in high humidity, making it suitable for terrariums or well-lit bathrooms.

Fertilize: Southern maidenhair fern thrives with high nitrogen fertilization, applied quarterly at half strength to moistened soil to prevent root burn. Avoid fertilizing in winter during dormancy. Tailoring fertilization to active growth in spring and summer enhances foliage density and vibrancy, indicating plant health.

Pruning: Southern maidenhair fern is a delicate fern that thrives in shaded, humid environments. Regular pruning of dead fronds encourages new growth and mitigates disease. Use clean scissors to trim close to the base, and monitor for signs of stress to adjust care as needed.

Propagation: Southern maidenhair fern propagates most effectively through division in spring or autumn, favored for its high success rate. New growth indicates successful propagation. Maintain a well-draining, moist environment to achieve optimal results.

Repotting: Repot southern maidenhair fern every 2-3 years in spring when crowding occurs. Use a slightly larger pot to prevent waterlogging and ensure well-draining soil. Maintain consistent moisture, high humidity, and indirect light to support recovery post-repotting.

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