Maidenhair Fern
Adiantum capillus-veneris 'Rock Springs'
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Fern
Height
12 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moist
Humidity
High humidity
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America, Asia
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Adiantum capillus-veneris, commonly known as Southern maidenhair fern, is a delicate perennial fern with fine, arching fronds of bright green, forming a lush, airy ground cover or container plant. The 'Rock Springs' cultivar is distinguished by its vigorous growth and resilience in shaded, rocky environments, showcasing glossy, dark green fronds with a graceful, cascading habit.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Choose a shaded location with rich, moist soil.
- Tuck spores into soil, keep consistently moist for 6 weeks.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
- Transplant young ferns in early spring after last frost.
- Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Water regularly during dry periods.
Pro Tip
Maintain consistent moisture and avoid direct sunlight for best growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Keep soil moist 🌱
- Provide shade during hottest part of the day
- Mulch to retain soil moisture
Don't
- Allow soil to dry out ❌
- Expose to direct sunlight ❌
- Overfertilize which can scorch roots
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Maidenhair Fern questions
What zones can Maidenhair Fern grow in?
Maidenhair Fern is hardy in USDA Zones 4–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Maidenhair Fern deer resistant?
Yes — Maidenhair Fern is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Maidenhair Fern bloom?
Maidenhair Fern typically blooms in early spring through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Maidenhair Fern need full sun?
Maidenhair Fern does best in part shade.
More Adiantum to compare
Northern Maidenhair Fern
Adiantum pedatum
Maidenhair Fern Miss Sharples
Adiantum pedatum 'Miss Sharples'
Himalayan Maidenhair Fern
Adiantum venustum
Mairis's Maidenhair Fern
Adiantum x mairisii
Southern Maidenhair Fern
Adiantum capillus-veneris 'Alabama Lace'
Maidenhair Fern Sierra Chiquita
Adiantum capillus-veneris 'Sierra Chiquita'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
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Grow Maidenhair Fern with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
