Adiantum pedatum Imbricatum - Northern maidenhair Fern

Adiantum pedatum Imbricatum, or Pedate Maidenhair Fern, is a beautiful running fern, the only hardy species in its genus to thrive in our climate. Adiantum is characterised by its graceful and divided, finger-like fronds which are useful in shady gardens alongside azaleas or hostas.

Also known as Canadian Maidenhair Fern, this rhizomatous and running fern comes from a lineage that dates back 350 million years. It develops deciduous, forked, rounded, 20 to 40 cm (8 to 16in) long, bristly fronds. The frond pinnae are green and mature to a blue-green. The stems are shiny, dark brown, almost black.

Slow-growing Adiantum pedatum Imbricatum prefers humus-bearing, moist and well-drained soil in partial shade. Mix ericaceous compost and sand with your garden soil. Mulch with brown leaves to protect the crown from the cold and maintain the necessary moisture and acidity for its growth.

The Canadian Maidenhair Fern has medicinal properties used for lung ailments, but it is mostly grown in ericaceous beds for its light and graceful foliage.

Tips: Even though this maidenhair fern is evergreen, it is a good idea to cut back any unsightly fronds in early spring.