Adiantum venustum (Himalayan maidenhair fern)

Photo/Illustration: Steve Aitken

(Based on 2 user reviews)

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Botanical Name: Adiantum venustum ad-ee-AN-tum ven-OO-stum Common Name: Himalayan maidenhair fern Genus: Adiantum

Elegant, lacy foliage on black stems makes this maidenhair fern a standout, even among others in the genus. In addition, when new fronds emerge in late winter or early spring, they are bright bronze-pink. Only about a foot high, Himalayan maidenhair ferns can spread by creeping rhizomes to form a sizeable colony. They also make eye-catching indoor plants and pair well with orchids.
Noteworthy characteristics: Lacy, delicate foliage on black stalks. Evergreen, but deciduous below 14°F. Spreads indefinitely.
Care: Grow in moist but well-drained soil in part shade.
Propagation: Divide in early spring. Sow spores when ripe at 59°F or warmer.
Problems: Generally problem-free, but scale insects may occur if fern is grown under glass.

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posted by tokishi
1/15/2009
Region: Mountain West
Zone: 5

posted by showcase
7/26/2008
Region: Southern California
Zone: 8

As a So Calif landscape designer I'm always searching for eye catching plant material. At 6"-8" tall, the a. venustum (Himalayan maidenhair fern)is a show stopper, and one that truly deserves to be planted along borders beneath canopies of filtered sunlight. This is on my short list as a recommended fern for my clients.

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Photo/Illustration: Steve Aitken

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