Description and General Information:
Adiantum aleuticum is commonly called the western maidenhair fern. The main distribution is western North America, from the Aleutian Islands, south to northern Mexico. However, is also occurs as a disjunct in eastern North America, from Newfoundland to Vermont, often growing on serpentine substrates. It occurs from sea-level to elevations of 3200 m, generally growing among talus slopes and cliff edges. The typical form has fronds that reach 30-75 cm. The light green fronds are fan-shaped with 6-10 finger-like projections, held horizontally in shade, but in cool, mountain areas, may be held vertically. The stipes are dark brown to black. A super dwarf form called 'Subpumilum' is endemic to coastal cliffs of Vancouver Island. This variety only reaches 15-20 cm. 'Imbricatum' is just slightly larger.
Adiantum aleuticum 'Subpumilum'
Cultivation:
In the garden, provide this fern with shade and even moisture. It will quickly succumb to drought. The soil should have a high organic content but be calcium rich. This fern is deciduous so requires little fall maintenance. The stiff stipes may need to be trimmed in early spring before the new fronds arise. It appears to be insect and disease-free.
Adiantum aleuticum
Blooming Season:
N/A
Propagation:
Ferns are often grown from spores but this technique can be challenging. Easiest, is to dig and divide large clumps in the fall or early spring.
Adiantum aleuticum growing on serpentine in Newfoundland.