Adiantum venustum (Himalayan Maidenhair)

Incredibly attractive, Adiantum venustum (Himalayan Maidenhair) is a deciduous fern, almost evergreen in mild areas, with broadly triangular fronds composed of many small fan-shaped segments. Emerging in late winter to early spring, the new fronds display a charming salmon flush before maturing to fresh spring green.

Incredibly attractive, Adiantum venustum (Himalayan Maidenhair) is a deciduous fern, almost evergreen in mild areas, with broadly triangular fronds composed of many small fan-shaped segments. Emerging in late winter to early spring, the new fronds display a charming salmon flush before maturing to fresh spring green. The branching rhizome is creeping, gradually supporting a colony of elegant evergreen fronds. Hardy and very ornamental, this fern is a desirable addition to the shade garden that it will slowly carpet with softness and reliable beauty.

  • Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society for its outstanding qualities
  • Grows up to 6-8 in. tall (15-20 cm) and 1-3 ft. wide (30-90 cm).
  • A part to full shade lover, it is best grown in moist, well-drained soils. Avoid hot afternoon sun to prevent leaf burn in summer. Avoid water-logged sites.
  • Excellent choice for shady beds and borders, underplanting roses and shrubs, cottage gardens, woodland gardens, and containers.
  • Virtually disease free. Deer resistant.
  • Remove damaged fronds before new growth starts. Propagate by spores. Resents being divided – large size divisions re-establish readily, but not the small ones.
  • Native to China and the Himalayas.

Requirements

Hardiness 5
– 9

Heat Zones 5
– 8

Climate Zones 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 14, 15, 16, 17
Plant Type Ferns
Plant Family Adiantum – Maidenhair Ferns
Exposure Partial Sun, Shade
Season of Interest SpringSummerFallWinter
Height 6"
– 8"
(15cm
– 20cm)
Spread 1'
– 3'
(30cm
– 90cm)
Spacing 36″ (90cm)
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained
Characteristics Plant of Merit, Showy, Evergreen
Tolerance Deer
Garden Uses Beds and Borders, Patio and Containers, Underplanting Roses and Shrubs
Garden Styles Informal and Cottage, Prairie and Meadow, Traditional Garden