Maidenhair Fern

Adiantum raddianumAlso known as: Delta Maidenhair, Venus Hair Fern

The Maidenhair Fern is prized for its delicate, fan-shaped leaflets on wiry black stems, creating an ethereal, romantic appearance. Native to tropical Americas, it's considered one of the most beautiful ferns but also one of the most demanding. It grows 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) tall and wide.

Difficult Care

Medium Light

Perennial

Quick Care Summary

Light
Medium Light

Temperature Range
60-75°F (16-24°C)

Ideal Temp
68°F (20°C)

Pet Safe

This plant is non-toxic to cats and dogs. While it's safe to have around pets, ingestion of any plant material may still cause mild stomach upset.

Seasonal Care Schedule

Adjust your care routine based on the season for optimal plant health.

Watering Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Every 2-3 days, keep consistently moist
Summer	Daily or every other day, never let dry out
Fall	Every 3-4 days
Winter	Every 3-4 days, maintain consistent moisture

Cannot tolerate drying out - even once can damage fronds. Use lukewarm water.

Misting Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Daily
Summer	Multiple times daily
Fall	Daily
Winter	Multiple times daily with indoor heating

Humidity is critical - below 50% causes browning. Use humidifier or bathroom placement.

Fertilizing Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Every 2 weeks with diluted liquid fertilizer
Summer	Every 2 weeks at quarter strength
Fall	Monthly
Winter	No fertilizing

Sensitive to salts - use very diluted fertilizer.

Pruning

Frequency: Remove brown fronds regularly

Best Season: Any time

Cut damaged fronds at base. Can cut back completely if plant struggles - may regenerate.

Repotting

Frequency: Every 1-2 years

Best Season: Spring

Use peat-based mix with good drainage. Shallow pots work best.

Propagation Methods

Division of rhizomes
Spore propagation (difficult)

Common Problems

Brown, crispy fronds: Low humidity or dried out even once
Yellow fronds: Overwatering, cold water, or cold drafts
Wilting: Underwatering - may recover if caught quickly
Pale fronds: Too much direct light

Pro Tips

Perfect for humid bathrooms with indirect light
Place on pebble tray with water for extra humidity
Use a humidifier nearby for best results
If it dies back, cut to soil and keep moist - may regenerate

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