Maidenhair Fern Adiantum raddianum
At a glance
- Light
- Medium indirect
- 800–8000 lux
- Water
- Every 2–4 days
- Never let dry — keep consistently moist
- Humidity
- 70–90%
- Temperature
- 16–24°C
- Ideal 18–22°C
- Soil pH
- 6–7
- moisture-retentive but not waterlogged
- Mature size
- 45 cm tall
- 60 cm wide
- Native to
- Tropical Americas, Brazil
- Growth
- Moderate
- Shrub
Watering calculator
Estimate how often to water your Maidenhair Fern based on pot size, light, and season.
Always check the top 2 cm of soil before watering. Calculator output is an estimate, not a schedule.
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Compare with similar plants
| Trait | Maidenhair Fern Adiantum raddianum | Boston Fern Nephrolepis exaltata | Bird's Nest Fern Asplenium nidus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light | Medium indirect | Medium indirect | Medium indirect |
| Water | 2–4 days | 3–5 days | 5–8 days |
| Pet safe | Pet-safe | Pet-safe | Pet-safe |
| Difficulty | Challenging | Moderate | Moderate |
| Mature size | 45 cm | 90 cm | 60 cm |
Light requirements in detail
Maidenhair Fern prefers medium indirect (800–8000 lux) . Filtered light only. Direct sun crisps the delicate fronds within hours.
A spot 1–2 meters from a bright east or south-facing window usually fits this range. Direct afternoon sun through unfiltered glass can scorch leaves; sheer curtains help diffuse it.
Watering in detail
Water Maidenhair Fern every 2– 4 days during the growing season, allowing Never let dry — keep consistently moist to dry between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter when growth slows.
Consistent moisture matters here — long dry spells will show up as crispy leaf edges.
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Frequently asked questions about Maidenhair Fern
How often should I water Maidenhair Fern?
Water Maidenhair Fern every 2–4 days during the growing season, allowing Never let dry — keep consistently moist to dry between waterings. Reduce frequency by 30–50% in winter.
What kind of light does Maidenhair Fern need?
Maidenhair Fern prefers medium indirect (800–8000 lux). Filtered light only. Direct sun crisps the delicate fronds within hours.
Is Maidenhair Fern toxic to cats?
Maidenhair Fern is non-toxic to cats according to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Mild stomach upset is still possible if a cat chews the leaves, but it will not cause poisoning.
Is Maidenhair Fern toxic to dogs?
Maidenhair Fern is non-toxic to dogs according to the ASPCA. Mild stomach upset is still possible if a dog chews the leaves.
How big does Maidenhair Fern grow?
Maidenhair Fern reaches about 45 cm tall and 60 cm wide at maturity. Growth rate is moderate.