Rosy Maidenhair Fern
adiantum hispidulum
Also known as: ["Wave Fern","Rough Maidenhair"]
Overview
A delicate, evergreen fern with fan-shaped leaflets and a graceful, arching habit, native to tropical and subtropical regions.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Polypodiopsida |
| Order: | Pteridales |
| Family: | Pteridaceae |
| Genus: | Adiantum |
| Botanical Name: | Adiantum hispidulum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or indoor pot in a humid, well-ventilated area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity, especially in dry environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic mix; peat-based with perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every few months or when fronds decline.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on selective removal rather than heavy cutting.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerates partial shade; adjust for stronger light in summer to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to brighter light; protect from direct sun; place in east-facing windows or shaded outdoor spots.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to filtered light
Rotate plant monthly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Maintain consistent moisture without saturation; water when top inch of soil feels dry; avoid wetting fronds to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, humus-rich soil with some sand or perlite
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; top-dress with fresh mix annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); thrives in moderate temperatures; avoid extremes below 50°F or above 85°F.
Avoid placing near heating/cooling vents; maintain stable temperatures; monitor with a thermometer.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with rhizome sections or by division of clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings with rhizome.
- Remove lower fronds.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Keep warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Optional but can aid root development; use a mild rooting hormone if desired.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth may take 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), plastic bags or propagator, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture; use clear plastic to retain humidity.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip individual fronds at the base; avoid cutting into the rhizome unless dividing.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged fronds to maintain appearance and encourage new growth; occasional shaping as needed.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or small pruning shears.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; remove only dead/damaged fronds; avoid over-pruning; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growth period begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture daily; water early morning; ensure proper drainage; avoid leaf wetness.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the base until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even saturation of the root zone; avoid overhead watering to keep fronds dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during active growth (spring/summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in fall/winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate peat moss for acidity and water retention; use orchid bark for aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing or browning fronds; stunted growth; leaf drop; wilting despite adequate water.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; fronds may turn black or brittle; susceptible to root rot in cold, wet soil.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; ensure soil doesn't stay wet; use a space heater if necessary.
Hot Stress
Fronds may wilt, scorch, or dry out; growth may slow; increased water loss through transpiration.
Solution: Increase humidity with misting or pebble trays; provide shade; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer correctly; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with fronds.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring/summer; cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAdiantum hispidulum is not toxic to cats. It is safe for cultivation in environments where cats are present, with no known toxic effects from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicAdiantum hispidulum is not toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Humans
Non-toxicAdiantum hispidulum, commonly known as the rosy maidenhair fern, is not considered toxic to humans. It is widely used in landscaping and indoor cultivation due to its aesthetic appeal and lack of harmful effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Adiantum hispidulum?
A: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Q: Does this fern need direct sunlight?
A: No, it prefers partial to full shade and bright, indirect light.
Q: Is Adiantum hispidulum safe for pets?
A: Yes, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Pteridaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to filtered ligh |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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