Jordan's Maidenhair Fern
adiantum jordanii
Also known as: ["Jordan's Maidenhair","California Maidenhair"]
Overview
A delicate, deciduous fern with fan-shaped leaflets on black stems, native to western North America.
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 jordanii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or indoor pot with high humidity
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–27°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days, especially in dry indoor environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with organic matter (e.g., peat-based mix with perlite).
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 1–2 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only dead or yellowing fronds unless severe damage occurs.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to lower light in summer to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; protect from direct sun; place in east-facing windows or under sheer curtains for filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to filtered light
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; avoid south-facing windows in summer; provide shade during peak sun hours.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Maintain consistent moisture without saturation; avoid letting the soil dry out completely; use room temperature water.
Soil
moist, well-draining, humus-rich soil
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Use a mix of peat, perlite, and a small amount of compost; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler temperatures (55–60°F) acceptable in winter.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; keep away from heating/cooling vents; maintain stable conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring and summer) with diluted liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Spores or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Collect spores from mature fronds.
- Sow on sterile medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
- Or divide rhizomes and replant.
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
Mixture of peat moss and perlite; kept consistently moist.
Hormone
Not required for spores; rooting hormone may aid rhizome division.
Timeline
Spores may take 1–3 months to germinate; rhizome division roots in 2–4 weeks.
Tools Needed
Spore collection kit, sterile knife, peat-perlite mix, humidity dome, rooting hormone (optional).
Quick Tips
Use a fine sieve for even spore distribution; keep propagation area free of drafts; label new plants for tracking.
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 health; encourage new growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged fronds; avoid over-pruning; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture daily; water when top inch is dry; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even saturation of the root zone; avoid wetting the fronds to prevent fungal issues; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate peat moss for acidity and moisture retention.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing or browning of fronds; stunted growth; wilting despite adequate water.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; fronds may turn black or brittle; increases susceptibility to disease.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; maintain humidity to compensate for cooler air.
Hot Stress
Fronds may wilt, scorch, or turn yellow; increased water loss leads to dehydration.
Solution: Increase humidity; provide shade; water more frequently but avoid overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAdiantum jordanii is not known to be toxic to cats. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicAdiantum jordanii is not known to be toxic to dogs. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicAdiantum jordanii is not known to exhibit any toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much light does Adiantum jordanii need?
A: It thrives in partial to full shade, avoiding direct sunlight.
Q: Is Jordan's Maidenhair Fern toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Why are the leaves turning yellow?
A: Yellowing leaves may indicate overwatering, poor drainage, or insufficient humidity.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Pteridaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to filtered ligh |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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