Maidenhair Fern

Adiantum raddianum

£9.99

size guide

The height of all of our plants is measured from the base of the pot.

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Pot Size Pot Diameter Pot Height
6cm6cm5.5cm
9cm9cm8.5cm
1 Litre13cm11cm
2 Litre17cm13cm
3 Litre19cm15cm
4 Litre20cm17cm
5 Litre23cm19cm
7 Litre25cm20cm

Please note: the pot sizes listed below may vary due to the suppliers we use.

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The Maidenhair Fern, also called the Adiantum raddianum, is one of the most delicate-looking houseplants you can grow. It is known for its tiny, pale green, fan-shaped leaflets that hang from thin, shiny black stems. The whole plant is so delicate that it moves with the slightest breath of air. Its compact size and delicate foliage make it a popular choice for indoor spaces.

The Maidenhair Fern is a bit of a diva, though, so it's good to know that from day one. This fern hates drying out. Even if you miss watering it once, the fronds turn crisp and brown. If the fronds dry out, trim away the dead growth and restore consistent moisture and humidity. The plant may produce new fronds if its roots and growing crown remain healthy. It loves spots like steamy bathrooms and kitchens, away from radiators and direct sun. Choose the 8.5cm pot for a shelf or windowsill, or the 12cm pot for a fuller clump. For more plants that cope with lower light, see our shade loving indoor plants.

  • The Maidenhair Fern has fan-shaped leaf segments that are soft, light green and lacy
  • The plant has thin, wiry black stems that contrast with its delicate green foliage
  • The plant likes humidity and sits happiest in a bathroom or kitchen
  • It is generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs, making it a suitable choice for pet-owning households

Please note: the decorative pot shown in the images is for illustration only and is not included.

Plant genus Adiantum

Common Name Maidenhair Fern

Plant type Ferns

Foliage type Deciduous, Perennial

Hardiness Tropical

Soil acidity Neutral

Leaf colour Green

Growth Rate Moderate

Edible Use No

Light Required Bright In-direct sunlight

Watering Keep the compost lightly and evenly moist, watering when the surface just begins to dry. Avoid both prolonged dryness and waterlogged roots, and let excess water drain freely after each watering. Water a little less in winter, while maintaining reasonable humidity around the foliage.

Best Growing Conditions Grow in bright, indirect light and protection from harsh direct sun, ideally at around 18-26°C, away from cold draughts and sudden temperature changes. Use a good-quality, well-drained houseplant compost and make sure excess water can drain freely from the pot. Most houseplants perform best with moderate humidity and should be kept away from strong radiator heat.

Is a maidenhair fern hard to look after?

It's fussier than most other ferns, but that’s not a dealbreaker. Caring for it is simple once you know one rule: never let the compost dry out. Keep it damp, give it humid air and bright shade, and it's a fairly easygoing houseplant. If you miss watering it, that is where most problems start.

Why are my maidenhair fern's leaves turning crispy?

Fronds that turn crispy and shrivel up almost always mean the plant dried out or the air is too dry. If this happens, don’t throw it away. Instead, snip the dead stems at soil level and keep the compost evenly moist. If the roots and growing crown are still healthy, new fronds may develop with suitable care.

Can I keep it in a bathroom?

Yes, and it's one of the best spots for it. Steam from showers and baths keeps the air moist. The Maidenhair Fern loves this. Just make sure the room has a window that lets in some natural light, as a windowless bathroom is too dark.

Should I use tap water or rainwater?

Rainwater is a good choice for Maidenhair Ferns. Filtered water can also be useful, particularly in hard-water areas, as minerals may build up in the compost over time. If using tap water, allow it to reach room temperature before watering, but remember that leaving it standing overnight won't remove dissolved minerals.

Can a Maidenhair Fern grow outside?

Not this one. Adiantum raddianum is a tropical fern that can't cope with UK frosts or cold winds. This means you should keep it indoors all year. It can enjoy a sheltered, shady patio on warm summer days, but bring it back in before the nights turn chilly.

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Top tip

Keep humidity reasonably steady and avoid letting the root ball dry out completely, especially during active growth. Good drainage is especially important, so avoid leaving the roots sitting in persistently wet or compacted soil.

Key Features

Air Purifying

Air Purifying

Comes Back Each Year

Comes Back Each Year

Good For Containers

Good For Containers

Pet Friendly

Pet Friendly

Shade Tolerant

Shade Tolerant