Evergreen Maidenhair Fern

Adiantum venustum

Physical Characteristics

Adiantum venustum is an evergreen Fern growing to 0.3 m (1ft) by 0.3 m (1ft in) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. It is in leaf all year. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland). It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - Himalayas.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; Ground Cover;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Astringent Diuretic Emetic Emmenagogue Expectorant Resolvent Tonic The fronds are astringent, diuretic, emetic, emmenagogue, expectorant, resolvent and tonic[240] They are used in the treatment of headaches and scorpion stings[145, 240]. A paste made from the rhizomes is used in Nepal to treat cuts and wounds[272].

Known Hazards

Although we have found no reports of toxicity for this species, a number of ferns contain carcinogens so some caution is advisable[200]. Many ferns also contain thiaminase, an enzyme that robs the body of its vitamin B complex. In small quantities this enzyme will do no harm to people eating an adequate diet that is rich in vitamin B, though large quantities can cause severe health problems. The enzyme is destroyed by heat or thorough drying, so cooking the plant will remove the thiaminase[172].