The Highly Ornamental Maidenhair Fern

The maidenhair fern belongs to the genus Adiantum and is placed in the family Pteridaceae. Some researchers may place it in a family, similar in name to the fern's genus, Adiantaceae. Maiden ferns are easily distinguished, as they are dark green in color and usually sport black stripes and rachises. They are attractive in appearance and spread slowly as they grow. The fern is usually found in well-drained places where the soil is humus-rich, such as the rocks around a waterfall. The most common variety of maidenhair fern found in the United States is the five finger fern known as Adiantum pedatum.

Maiden hair ferns usually grow up to a height of 12-18 inches. The fronds grow in a circular, fan like position. Maidenhair are often grown for ornamental purposes, owing to their dainty appearance. They are not susceptible to any serious disease and are usually not infested by insects. A regular spray of Condifor or PestOil is sufficient to keep the plant pest free. People often grow Maidenhair in shade gardens. The only necessary requirement for growing Maidenhair is a continuous supply of moisture. The plant should not be allowed to dry out for even a brief period because it may lead to the death of the plant. If by any chance your maidenhair fern is subjected to dry conditions and appears to be dead, try to revive it with proper care as the These ferns have a special quality by which it is possible to revive a plant that looks almost dead.

These ferns are widely used for decorative purposes both indoors and outdoors. They can be planted in beautiful pots or even hung in baskets. When planted indoors, care should be taken to place the plant in a brightly lit space, though not under the direct rays of the sunlight. If grown in the garden, Maidenhair fern should ideally be grown with fringed bleeding hearts, toad lilies or astilbes. They can be grown in crevices of shady rocks in the garden or besides a pond. These ferns lend a delicate appearance to the surroundings and provide a soothing touch.

These ferns are also widely used in herbal medicines to cure a variety of problems, such as jaundice, bronchitis, asthma and kidney stones. Maidenhair fern is also consumed in the form of herbal tea as a possible cure for many diseases.