Also known as California Maidenhair Fern
California Maidenhair (Adiantum jordanii) is a delicate fern with lacy, fan-shaped fronds and black stems, thriving in moist, shaded environments.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial to full shade
25% intensity
Thrives in dappled shade or areas with indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the fronds.
Keep consistently moist
75% intensity
Prefers moist, well-draining soil. Avoid drying out completely.
Moist, humus-rich, well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 15-24°C (59-75°F). Protect from frost and extreme heat.
Light
25% intensity
Feed sparingly during the growing season with a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
California Maidenhair ferns thrive in consistently moist soil. Water whenever the top 1-2 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid letting the soil completely dry out, but also prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Use filtered or rainwater if your tap water is hard.
Minimal pruning is required for Adiantum jordanii. Remove any dead, damaged, or yellowing fronds by snipping them at the base. This tidies the plant and encourages new growth.
Pruning can be done at any time of year as needed.
California Maidenhair ferns are typically propagated by division or spores. Division is best done in spring when repotting. Carefully separate rhizomes with a few fronds and roots.
Spore propagation is more challenging and requires specific sterile conditions and patience.
Repot your Adiantum jordanii every 2-3 years, or when it becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one. Use a well-draining, peat-based potting mix.
Repotting is best done in spring before new growth begins.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of California Maidenhair (Adiantum jordanii)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Pteridaceae |
| Genus | Adiantum |
| Species | Adiantum jordanii |
Similar in genus Adiantum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
