Rough maidenhair fern facts for kids

Adiantum hispidulum, also known as the rough maidenhair fern or five-fingered jack, is a small fern found in many parts of the world. You can find it in places like Africa, Australia, New Zealand, and other Pacific Islands. This fern grows in groups from its roots, often among rocks or in the soil where it's a bit sheltered. It's a common plant that adds a touch of green to many landscapes.

Naming the Rough Maidenhair Fern

The scientific name for this fern is Adiantum hispidulum. A Swedish scientist named Olof Swartz first described it in 1802. The word hispidulum comes from Latin and means "minutely hairy." This is a good description because the fern has tiny hairs on its fronds. Another common name for it is "five-fingered jack."

What Does This Fern Look Like?

The rough maidenhair fern grows in lovely clumps, either from the ground or among rocks. Its roots, called rhizomes, are short and dark. The main stem of the frond, called a stipe, can grow up to 45 centimeters (about 18 inches) long.

The fronds are divided into many smaller parts. These parts are called pinnae, and they can be long and narrow or shaped like a triangle. Each pinna is then divided even more into tiny, roughly rectangular or fan-shaped pieces called pinnules. If you look underneath these pinnules, you might see 1 to 20 small, round structures called sori along their edges. These sori contain the fern's spores, which are like seeds for ferns. When new fronds start to grow, they might have a pretty pink color before they turn into the dark green you usually see.

Where Does This Fern Grow?

This fern is found in many different places around 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's also common in New Zealand and many Pacific islands.

The rough maidenhair fern loves moist areas. In Australia, it often grows near rocks, in rainforests, or in open forests where it can get enough moisture and shelter. It's a very adaptable plant!

Growing This Fern at Home

The rough maidenhair fern is a popular ornamental plant, which means people like to grow it in their gardens or homes because it looks nice. It's quite easy to grow and can adapt well to different conditions, even though it might grow a bit slowly. Compared to some other types of ferns, this one is tougher. It can handle more sun and doesn't mind drying out a little bit more than its relatives. This makes it a great choice for beginner gardeners or those who want a beautiful, low-maintenance fern.