Maidenhair Fern
Adiantum raddianum

Maidenhair Fern

Medium lightFussyPet-safe
6078°FComfort range
HighHumidity
Background

The maidenhair fern is the diva of this list — gossamer-fine fronds on wiry black stems, beautiful enough to be worth the trouble, and utterly unforgiving of a single dry-out. Let the soil go dry even once and whole fronds crisp up and die back, sometimes for good.

The trick is relentless consistency: constantly moist soil, high humidity, and gentle indirect light. It's happiest in a bathroom, a terrarium, or under a cloche where the air stays damp. If it crisps despite your efforts, cut everything back to the soil and keep it moist — it will often push fresh fronds. Not a plant for the forgetful, but few are prettier.

Medium, bright indirect light only; the delicate fronds scorch in any direct sun.

Care at a glance
LightMedium light
WaterEvery 2–4 days; never let it dry out
Soil mixHumus-rich, moisture-retentive but airy mix with coir or peat
HumidityHigh
Temperature60–78°F
DifficultyFussy
HabitClumping
Mature size8–14 in
PropagationDivision of the crown
Watering & safety
How to water

Keep the soil constantly moist; a single dry-out can kill it

Drought tolerance

Low — keep to a consistent rhythm and don't let it dry out hard.

Pet & child safety

Non-toxic and pet-safe.

The routine

Keep the soil constantly moist — never let it dry

every 2–4 days

Maintain high humidity with a tray, cloche, or grouping

Feed with a very dilute balanced fertiliser

every 4–6 weeksGrowing season

If fronds crisp, cut back to the soil to force fresh growth

Watch for
Fungus GnatsScaleMealybugs