Rough maidenhair fern facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Rough maidenhair fern |
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| In Chatswood West, Australia | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Adiantum
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| Species: |
hispidulum
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The rough maidenhair fern (also called five-fingered jack) is a small, common fern. Its scientific name is Adiantum hispidulum. You can find it in many places around the world, like Africa, Australia, New Zealand, and other Pacific Islands. This fern grows in groups, with its leaves (called fronds) coming up from underground stems (rhizomes). It likes to grow among rocks or in the soil in places that are protected.
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Naming the Rough Maidenhair Fern
Every living thing has a scientific name. This helps scientists around the world know exactly which plant or animal they are talking about. The rough maidenhair fern's scientific name, Adiantum hispidulum, was first given by a Swedish botanist named Olof Swartz in 1802.
The second part of its name, hispidulum, comes from a Latin word meaning "minutely hairy." This describes the tiny hairs on the fern. The name "five-fingered jack" is another common name for this plant.
What Does the Rough Maidenhair Fern Look Like?
This fern grows in bunches or clumps. Its fronds (leaves) grow from short, dark, clumpy underground stems called rhizomes. The main stem of the frond, called the stipe, can be up to 45 centimeters (18 inches) long.
The fronds are divided into many smaller parts. These smaller parts are shaped like triangles, diamonds, or fans. Underneath these small leaf parts, you might see tiny brown spots. These spots are called sori, and they contain the fern's spores, which are like seeds. When the fern is young, its new leaves might have a pink color before they turn dark green.
Where the Rough Maidenhair Fern Lives
The rough maidenhair fern is found in many different parts of the world. It grows in tropical eastern Africa, including countries like South Africa and Kenya. You can also find it across Asia, through Malesia, and in almost all parts of Australia (except Tasmania). It also lives in New Zealand and many Pacific islands.
This fern is a very common plant. It often grows in places that are moist or damp. In Australia, it is usually found near rocks, in rainforests, or in open forests.
Growing Your Own Rough Maidenhair Fern
People often grow the rough maidenhair fern as an ornamental plant. This means it's grown for its beauty in gardens or homes. It can be a bit slow to grow, but it adapts well to being cultivated.
Compared to other types of ferns, this one is quite tough. It can handle more sun and dry conditions than many other ferns.
