Adiantum venustum
Himalayan maidenhair fern

© Richie Steffen / Great Plant Picks
© Richie Steffen / Great Plant Picks
Outstanding Qualities
The delicate fronds and airy appearance of this little fern belie its character, because it is a trooper. Unlike most hardy maidenhair ferns, Himalayan maidenhair fern is also evergreen. But perhaps most enchanting is the way that its small fronds unfurl in late winter with a warm, bronze blush. These mature to fresh spring green, contributing a wonderland effect to the woodland garden. Himalayan maidenhair fern spreads very slowly, so it can be used to line paths or as a gentle groundcover in shady locations. It is an excellent foil for other woodland and shade garden plants.
Quick Facts
Plant Type: spreading fern
Foliage Type: evergreen
Plant Height: 0 ft. 6 in. (0.15 meters)
Plant Width/Spread: 3 ft. 0 in. (0.91 meters)
Hardiness: USDA Zones 5 to 8
Flower Color: none
Sun/Light Exposure: light to dappled shade
Water Requirements: regular watering
Seasonal Interest: spring to fall delicate foliage
Resistant to: deer
Colors & Combos
Great Plant Combinations: Arisaema ringens, Dryopteris wallichiana, Smilacina racemosa, Hydrangea ‘Preziosa’, Trillium chloropetalum
Great Color Contrasts: lavender, blue, white, yellow
Great Color Partners: green, black
- Culture Notes
- Himalayan maidenhair fern prefers light to dappled shade with its most robust growth in a location with morning sun and afternoon shade. A location with well-drained soil is best, but this fern will tolerate sandy and clay soils. During dry weather water at least regularly or about once per week. For faster or more lush growth water frequently or two to threes times per week. This maidenhair fern resents wet feet, so avoid water logged sites. The new growth starts in late winter, so the old leaves should be cut back at the end of January, even though they may still look nice. It resents being divided; if you do this, make your divisions as large as possible for a speedy recovery.
- Geek Notes
- Adiantum is from the Greek, adiantos, meaning unwettable, referring to the water-repellent fronds.