Free Adiantum Capillus Veneris Plants

An attractive little plant with delicate, pale green, fan-shaped fronds. The Adiantum is a versatile fern that can either be displayed on its own or used to add softness to a mixed planting. The main problem with the plant is that it is very susceptible to dehydration. If the compost becomes too dry or the humidity is not kept high enough, the thin fronds quickly wither and die. Plants that have suffered dehydration can sometimes be saved if remedial action is taken early enough. The shrivelled fronds may even become turgid again, but it is usually necessary to cut them off just above soil level, using sharp scissors. Associated planting will of course provide the plant with a more humid atmosphere.

Plant type : Fern with bushy, multi-stemmed, compact habit
Season of interest : All year round
Size : 20-30cm (8 —12in)
Flower : None
Leaf : Fan-shaped fronds, 20-30cm (8—12in), serrated, mid-green leaflets on brown to blackish stems
Temperature : 16-20°C (60—68°F)
Aspect/Light : Moderate light, but out of direct sunlight
Humidity : Moderate to high; dislikes dry atmosphere
Watering : Keep compost evenly moist throughout year
Feeding : Once every three to four weeks with half strength houseplant fertilizer in spring and summer
Propagation : Divide plant into clumps in spring or summer and pot singly
Potting : Seed and cutting compost, or mixture of potting compost and medium to coarse sphagnum moss peat
Problems : Dehydration due to dry atmosphere or to compost drying out
Availability : Commonly available throughout the year
Uses indoors : Thrives in body of kitchen, bathroom or bedroom; may be tried in lounge or dining room if not too hot and dry
Other varieties : A. raddianum- more incised leaflets