Although the western maidenhair has traditionally been interpreted as an infraspecific variant of Adiantum pedatum , the two taxa are reproductively isolated and differ in an array of morphologic characteristics. Therefore, they are more appropriately considered separate species (C. A. Paris and M. D. Windham 1988). Morphologic differences between A . pedatum and A . aleuticum are subtle; the two may be separated, however, using characteristics in the key. Adiantum aleuticum occurs in a variety of habitats throughout its range, from moist, wooded ravines to stark serpentine barrens and from coastal cliffs to subalpine boulder fields. Although morphologic differences exist among populations in these diverse habitats, they are not consistent. Consequently, infraspecific taxa are not recognized here within A . aleuticum .
Adiantum aleuticum, the western maidenhair fern or Aleutian maidenhair, is a species of deciduous fern in the genus Adiantum.
A. aleuticum typically grows about 18-30 inches tall and wide.[1] The fronds grow 6–10 in (15–25 cm) tall,[2] and are fan-shaped, light to medium green with dark brown to black stems.[3] When growing in relative shade, fronds are held horizontally, but it also can grow in high mountains in full sun (often on serpentine rock) with fronds held vertically. New fronds unfurl from a tight coil (circinate vernation) held on a tall stalk. Oblong sori (masses of spores) form beneath a curled-under leaflet edge (false indusium).[2]
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Tilden Regional Park California
growing on serpentine rock
Formerly classified as A. pedatum var. aleuticum, it was shown to be a separate species in 1991.[4][5]
Other common names include serpentine maidenhair and five-fingered fern.
Adiantum aleuticum is native mainly to western North America from the Aleutian Islands of Alaska, south to Chihuahua, and also locally in northeastern North America from Newfoundland south to Vermont.[6] It prefers fertile, moist soil in rock crevices near streams, from sea level in the north of its range, up to 3,200 m altitude in the south of its range. It tolerates serpentinite rock well, and is confined to this mineral-rich rock in some areas.[6] When growing on sunny serpentine talus and bedrock, the fronds are held vertically, giving the fern a rather different general appearance.[7]
The species[8] and its cultivar 'Subpumilum' have gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.[9] Though hardy they may also be grown as houseplants. They prefer low to medium light, and will grow in moist potting mix. They may prove difficult to keep alive in dry climates.[10]
Adiantum is derived from Greek and means 'unwetted'. This name is in reference to the fact that its leaves do not become saturated, even when they are submerged in water.[11] In the US, they are suitable for USDA hardiness zones 3–8.[1]
Aleuticum means 'from the Aleutian Islands'.[11]
Cultivars include:
Adiantum aleuticum, the western maidenhair fern or Aleutian maidenhair, is a species of deciduous fern in the genus Adiantum.
