Adiantum aethiopicum
Maidenhair fern | |
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Maidenhair fern at Chatswood West, Australia
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Scientific classification ![]() | |
Kingdom: | Plantae |
Clade: | Tracheophytes |
Division: | Polypodiophyta |
Class: | Polypodiopsida |
Order: | Polypodiales |
Family: | Pteridaceae |
Genus: | Adiantum |
Species: | A. aethiopicum
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Binomial name | |
Adiantum aethiopicum | |
Synonyms | |
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Adiantum aethiopicum, also known as the common maidenhair fern, is a small fern of widespread distribution, occurring in Africa, Australia, Norfolk Island and New Zealand.[1]
Adiantum aethiopicum was one of the many species first described by
Adiantum aethiopicum grows in spreading clumps of fronds from 10 to 45 cm (4 to 18 in) in height. The rhizomes are wiry and branched. The fronds are horizontal and layered, or upright. They are divided into two or three and have many small wedge-shaped segments, each of which has sori along its margins underneath.[3]
A common plant, often seen growing in moist areas. In Australia it is found near by creeks or in open forest, where it may form a large colony.[6]
The 1889 book 'The Useful Native Plants of Australia’ records that "This plant is said to possess medicinal properties, being slightly astringent and emetic. It has been used in Europe in making "Sirop de Capt'llaire," a demulcent drink, employed in diseases of the chest."[7]
Cultivation
Adiantum aethiopicum is a popular and well known ornamental plant. Propagation is from plant division or by spores.[8] In cultivation the Maidenhair fern prefers a well-lit situation inside, but a shady place outdoors without draughts. It is suitable for terrariums and hanging baskets.[9] It is fairly easy to grow,[10] and will flourish in moist garden soil or potting mix.[11]
References
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/4/4a/Commons-logo.svg/30px-Commons-logo.svg.png)
- ^ "Adiantum aethiopicum". Flora of Australia Online. Archived from the original on 2016-03-03. Retrieved 2010-07-17.
- ^ "Adiantum aethiopicum L." Australian Plant Name Index (APNI), IBIS database. Centre for Plant Biodiversity Research, Australian Government.
- ^ ISBN 0-85091-143-5.
- ^ Marchant, J.R.V.; Charles Joseph F. (1952). Cassell's Latin dictionary. London: Cassell.
- ISBN 0-620-03775-X.
- ^ "Adiantum aethiopicum". PlantNET - NSW Flora Online. Retrieved 2010-07-17.
- ^ J. H. Maiden (1889). The useful native plants of Australia : Including Tasmania. Turner and Henderson, Sydney.
- ISBN 978-1-74048-027-7
- ISBN 0-949773-49-2.
- ISSN 1039-9062.
- ISBN 9780881924954.