Adiantum venustum

Adiantum venustum

Adiantum venustum is a maidenhair fern from the Himalayas. It is very fine and delicate, making beautiful frothy ground cover in the shade of shrubs or trees. It is a superb woodlander, and as such, needs moist woodsy soil and a cool position.

When the new leaves appear in April they are salmon coloured, on thin shiny black stems. As they age, the combination of new pink leaves and older green ones is most attractive. The plant has a creeping habit as the rhizomes spread, giving a carpet of very fine foliage. The old leaves should be removed in February, making way for the new year's growth.

© 2009 Pat Mansey