Ferns and Fern Allies in the Canberra RegionAdiantum hispidulum - Rough Maidenhair fern
Rough Maidenhair is a very attractive
fern to grow in the greenhouse or in benign climates.
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Ferns and Fern Allies in the Canberra RegionAdiantum hispidulum - Rough Maidenhair fern
Rough Maidenhair is a very attractive
fern to grow in the greenhouse or in benign climates.
|
While Adiantum hispidulum has been reported in the Canberra region, it
is not common, as it appears to be frost tender. Elsewhere in south-eastern Australia,
it is very hardy, including in quite dry areas. It resembles several other ferns
of the Adiantum family that grow in Australia. Its pinnules are more angular
than Common Maidenhair, and the fronds are more obviously palmate. A key distinguishing
characteristic is the rough stipe. The specimen shown here was one I photographed
in Queensland. Some young fronds show a pinkish colouration, which I understand
is a chemical that protects the growing tips from damage by solar ultraviolet.
Typical
of all Adiantum species, the sporangia are borne under the recurved edge
of the pinnae, as shown here. The photograph is of the underside of the frond.
The dark glossy stems are also evident. An image of the spores of a closely related
fern, Adiantum formosum, is on the "About Ferns" page. 
