| Common Name | Latin Name | Plant Family |
|---|---|---|
|
Northern Maidenhair |
Adiantum pedatum |
Polypodiaceae |
The stipe of the plant is used as an ornament in basketry[172, 157].
The leaves can be used as a lining for carrying or storing fruits in baskets and on racks[257].
The plant is used as a hair conditioner[172]. The stems have been used as a hair wash to make the hair shiny[222].
Plants can be used for ground cover when planted about 30cm apart either way, they form a slowly spreading clump[208].
Cultivation & Habitat
Spores – best sown as soon as ripe on the surface of a humus-rich sterilized soil. Keep the compost moist, preferably by putting a plastic bag over the pot. Pot on small clumps of plantlets as soon as they are large enough to handle and keep them humid until they are well established. Do not plant outside until the ferns are at least 2 years old and then only in a very well sheltered position.
Division in spring or autumn.
Easily grown in a cool moist shady position[1, 187]. Requires an abundance of moisture in the air and soil[1]. Prefers an alkaline soil[200]. Requires an acid soil according to another report.
A very ornamental plant[1], it does not always succeed outdoors in Britain[1]. It probably prefers to be covered in snow overwinter – could a mulch help[1]?
Members of this genus are rarely if ever troubled by browsing deer[233].
Plants have a slowly-increasing rootstock[233].
N. America – Alaska to Quebec and Nova Scotia, south to California and Georgia. E. Asia
Become ungovernable, break the chains of the matrix; grow and forage your own food and medicine.
*None of the information on this website qualifies as professional medical advice. Take only what resonates with your heart and use your own personal responsibility for what’s best for you. For more information [brackets] [000], see bibliography.