Although ferns are a category of plant, ‘Fern’ is not a genus. Instead, the name fern describes any non-flowering plant with leaves which run along either side of the stem. These divided leaves are called fronds. Although ferns don’t bear flowers (they reproduce via spores!), this doesn’t mean that they can’t be a lively addition to an apartment or home. A well cared-for fern can be a truly zen thing to behold, with vivid green leaves and an arching shape reminiscent of a shelter or a waterfall. Because fern isn’t a genus, there is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ for caring for them and an experimental plant owner won’t have a lot of luck trying to cross-pollinate for a ‘Frankenstein Fern’. However, plenty of ferns are kind plants for new owners, proving themselves hardy and easy to grow.
Maidenhair Fern
Botanical Name: Adiantum
Adiantum, which means ‘unwetted’, is also known as the Maidenhair Fern. It is indigenous to the Americas, including the Andes, Asia and New Zealand, which makes it quite the heat-lover.
The leaves of the Maidenhair Fern grow in a fan-shape and – like most ferns – the frond itself is the leaf. The much smaller ‘leaves’ on the frond are actually leaflets which – in this instance – grow in a pinnate shape. The Maidenhair Fern’s leaves are bright green, with striking black veins running across them. The Maidenhair Fern usually doesn’t grow taller than a foot and a half, so it’s great for owners who want to keep a relatively clear space.
Although the Maidenhair Fern should be regularly watered, this should not be done with ‘hard’ water, or water with a high mineral content (such water is found throughout the United Kingdom). Hard water can sometimes be distilled by boiling, but if in doubt, a water filter is a good idea. The Maidenhair Fern likes soil to be moist but well-drained and tends to do well when soil is slightly acidic. The temperature around the Maidenhair Fern should be quite warm, and measures should be taken to maintain humidity as dry air can damage the Maidenhair Fern’s leaves.
Plant Care
Indirect natural light
This one doesn’t like its soft feather-like foliage to get wet, so water from the base. Keep soil moist
Regular, slightly acidic could be better
Enjoys animals but doesn’t like to be nibbled on
A pretty little fern that when combined with some classical music, and a nice glass of red will have you transported into a completely different world
