Adiantum jordanii aka California Maidenhair Fern

Taxonomy

Genus Adiantum Family Pteridaceae Order Polypodiales Class Polypodiopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Adiantum jordanii, also known as California Maidenhair, is a perennial species of maidenhair fern that belongs to the Vittarioideae subfamily of the Pteridaceae family. This fern is native to California and Baja California, where it grows in shaded woods under oaks and pines. It can also be found in the southernmost part of its range in Baja California, along with flora associates such as Mimulus aridus and Daucus pusillus. Each trailing leaf of Adiantum jordanii can reach over half a meter in length and is made up of many rounded green segments. These segments have two to four lobes and may split between the lobes, with the underside of each segment bearing one to four sori. However, Adiantum jordanii is a carrier of the fungus-like oomycete Phytophthora ramorum, which causes Sudden Oak Death. The USDA enforces an import control, focusing intensely on areas (CA, OR, NY in U.S.) that are infected with Sudden Oak death. When sold, they must be identified by place of origin and must also be accompanied by a phytosanitary certificate. The USDA warns against taking cuttings from wild specimens. Despite its potential danger, Adiantum jordanii is used in native plant and wildlife gardens and is also a relatively rare houseplant that requires regular watering to thrive. It does best in abundant sunlight and grows best in soil that is good at retaining moisture. The plant should be no more than 3 feet away from a window and doesn't require added fertilizers if it is repotted each time it doubles in size. If the fern dries out, it will go summer dormant and appear dead.

Common names

California Maidenhair Fern

How to care for California Maidenhair Fern

Difficulty

With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for California Maidenhair Fern, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.

Water

California Maidenhair Fern should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

If you're planting California Maidenhair Fern, you need to make sure you use a potting soil that can retain moisture. While the soil should still be able to drain well, it should contain plenty of organic matter like coco coir or sphagnum moss to help it stay moist and nourish the roots of your plants. This is especially important since California Maidenhair Fern is especially sensitive to dry soil. You can also add other amendments, such as compost, to help retain moisture and provide extra nutrients to your plants. Be sure to keep the soil evenly moist, but not soggy, throughout the growing season. With the right soil and proper care, your California Maidenhair Fern will thrive!

Toxicity

No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.

Fertilizer

The California Maidenhair Fern is known for its slow growth and doesn't require fertilizing beyond its potting soil. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should offer it sufficient nutrition. It's essential to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not from fertilizers.

Growth-pattern

California Maidenhair Fern grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.

Region of origin

California Maidenhair Fern’s native range is Worldwide.

More info:
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More Species in Adiantum Genus

Adiantum concinnum Polished Maidenhair

Adiantum aleuticum Aleutian Maidenhair

Adiantum aethiopicum

Adiantum philippense Walking Maidenhair Fern

Adiantum venustum Himalayan Maidenhair

Adiantum chilense Adi Antam

Adiantum caudatum Tailed Maidenhair

Adiantum tricholepis Fuzzy Maidenhair

Adiantum capillus

Adiantum capillus-veneris Maidenhair Fern