Adiantum bellum

Description

Adiantum bellum (Bermuda maidenhair fern) is a species of fern in the family Pteridaceae, and is native to Bermuda. It is 1 of 19 ferns native to Bermuda, the only native maidenhair, and the most prolific fern on the island. It is found only on Bermuda; however the IPNI reports it also found in Guiana. Adiantum bellum is deciduous. In the wild it grows in crevices, on cliffs and under rock ledges, in roadside verge, and terrestrially on hillsides. It does require moisture and shade, and is often prolific near streams if in well-drained sites. The delicate fronds grow to 5–30 cm long, and are fan-shaped, light to medium green with black stems (stipes and rachises). Benjamin D. Gilbert described a variety of A. bellum which he called walsingense; however, it is believed that this is just a variety produced by better soil and moisture conditions. The other maidenhair fern that now grows wild on Bermuda, Adiantum capillus-veneris, was introduced by Governor Lefroy. Bermuda maidenhair fern is sometimes grown in gardens; however, it is not hardy and does better indoors.