Pit Maidenhair (Adiantum capillus veneris)

One of the plants that we usually find for sale both in nurseries and in local markets is what we know as well maidenhair. Its scientific name is Adiantum capillus-veneris, and it is one of those plant beings that you want to have inside the home, because its leaves have such a beautiful color that decorating the room with it is not complicated at all. However, their care sometimes is.

Therefore, if you want to know how to have a specimen and not have to compost it in a matter of a few weeks, do not stop reading this article 🙂.

Origin and characteristics

Our protagonist it is a lively fern known as well maidenhair native to western and southern Europe, Africa, North and Central America. It can be found in walls, caves and stream banks, and of course also as an ornamental plant.

Reaches a height of between 10 and 40cm, and has a straight stem. The fronds (leaves) are pinnate, with a black petiole, and light green in color.

What are their cares?

If you want to have a copy of Adiantum capillus-veneris and that it lasts for many years, we recommend that you provide the following care:

• Location: it must be in semi-shade, if possible outside. Inside the house it can be as long as it is placed in a room where a lot of natural light enters.
• Irrigation: frequent, especially in summer. It is necessary to avoid that the earth dries up. Use lime-free or rainwater.
• Substratum: universal culture substrate mixed with perlite in equal parts.
• Subscriber: from spring to late summer with a liquid fertilizer, such as guano, following the instructions specified on the package.
• Transplant: every two years, in spring.
• Rusticity: supports weak frosts down to -2ºC, but will grow better in frost-free areas.

What uses does it have?

The fronds are used for pharyngitis, bronchitis, colds, asthma, cystitis or urethritis. In topical use it is used in dermatitis, stomatitis, gingivitis, parondotopathies and vulvovaginitis.

They are collected between June and July. The method of use is as follows:

• Infusion: a dessert tablespoon per cup. Take three cups a day.
• 2% decoction: with anise, mint or licorice to improve the flavor.

Did you find it interesting?