Northern maidenhair fern (Adiantum pedatum L.) is a deciduous, perennial fern native to Wisconsin. It’s native to regions of North America, temperate East Asia and Himalayas within plant hardiness zones 3 – 8. Northern maidenhair fern is a member of the Adiantaceae, a sub-family of the Pteridaceae family. 
Other species of Adiantum are used as houseplants and require moist air, warmth, and shade indoors. Adiantum’s are also excellent choices for terrariums. The scientific name translates to unwettable for Adiantum and footlike for pedatum. The description “unwettable” describes the fronds ability to shed rainwater and “footlike” refers to the shape of each subleaflet. 
The fine textured fronds stand up to 2 feet high with an overall delicate appearance. The stems are black or dark purple, usually hairless and occasionally covered with whitish bloom. The frond divides into two blades each with 2 – 9 leaflets (pinnae) arranged in a shape commonly described as horse-shoe, semi-circle, or C-shaped. The closest leaflets to the main stem are the largest and become progressively shorter as they approach the tip. 
Each leaflet has a few hundred, very small subleaflets (pinnules) contributing to the dainty appearance of the plant. Each subleaflet is ½ – 3/8 inch wide and ½ to 1 inch long with lobes separated by narrow sinuses and toothed with rounded teeth. On fertile subleaflets the upper margin is bent backward into a membranous flap (indusium) on which oblong, spore-bearing structures (sporangia) are borne in a compact cluster (sorus). Spores are produced from July to September. 
Northern maidenhair fern is a great addition to shade gardens with rich moist soils. The unique texture of Northern maidenhair fern leaves makes it an excellent addition to hosta gardens. Northern maidenhair fern prefers part to full shade and moist habitats. Specifically, Northern maidenhair fern prefers deciduous woods with rich well-drained soil. When planted in the garden, keep moist throughout the season as it doesn’t tolerate drying out. If the area Northern maidenhair fern being planted in is sandy, amend the soil with composted material or peat moss to help maintain consistent soil moisture. Northern maidenhair fern spreads through its rhizomes to form patches over time. Patience is needed with this fern because it spreads slowly. Gardeners can propagate by division in spring. It also reproduces by spores in summer and fall. The emerging fiddleheads are a reddish purple to pink. 
No serious insect or diseases problems are known to affect Northern maidenhair fern. Many tribes throughout North America used all parts of this fern as a medicine and in basketry. – Erin LaFaive, Eau Claire County UW-Extension Horticulture Educator
Adiantum Laevigatum, commonly known as the smooth maidenhair fern, is a graceful plant admired for its delicate texture and lacy fronds. While its beautiful fronds may steal the show, the roots and stems are equally important for the plant’s survival and function In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the anatomy and function of Adiantum Laevigatum’s roots and stems.
Anatomy of Adiantum Laevigatum Roots
The roots of Adiantum Laevigatum are thin, fibrous and highly branched. This extensive network of fine roots enables the plant to efficiently absorb water and nutrients from the soil. The roots grow in a spreading creeping pattern from the plant’s base.
Some key anatomical features of the roots include:
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The roots are very shallow, extending only a few inches below the soil surface. This makes them prone to drying out.
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The outermost layer of the roots is called the epidermis. It absorbs water and minerals from the soil.
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Inside the epidermis lies the cortex. It transports absorbed water and nutrients to other parts of the plant.
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At the center of the root is the vascular tissue made up of xylem and phloem. The xylem transports water and minerals while phloem transports sugars and organic compounds.
Function of Adiantum Laevigatum Roots
The main functions of the fibrous roots are:
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Absorption of water and minerals: The extensive root system efficiently absorbs moisture and dissolved minerals like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium from the soil.
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Anchorage: The delicate yet dense roots anchor the plant firmly to the ground and provide structural support.
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Transport: The roots transport absorbed water and minerals from the soil to the other parts of the plant through the xylem tissue.
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Food storage: The roots store carbohydrates and proteins that can be used by the plant for growth and development.
Anatomy of Adiantum Laevigatum Stems
The stems of Adiantum Laevigatum are slender, wiry, and upright. They emerge from the base of the plant and can grow up to 18 inches tall. Here are some key anatomical features:
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The stem has a thin, dark brown outer covering called the epidermis lined with fine hairs. This gives it a velvety texture.
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Under the epidermis lies the ground tissue called cortex. It facilitates the movement of water, minerals, and nutrients.
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The vascular tissue forms the core of the stem and consists of xylem and phloem tissues.
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The xylem transports water and dissolved minerals from the roots up to the fronds and other parts of the plant.
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The phloem tissue transports sugars and organic compounds synthesized during photosynthesis to different parts of the plant.
Function of Adiantum Laevigatum Stems
The key functions performed by the stems of Adiantum Laevigatum include:
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Providing structural support: The upright stems provide structural support to the gracefully arching fronds, allowing them to grow towards sunlight.
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Transport: The vascular tissue in the stem facilitates bidirectional transport and circulation of water, minerals, nutrients, and photosynthates between the roots and fronds.
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Photosynthesis: The green stems can photosynthesize and produce glucose. The phloem tissue transports this photosynthate to other plant parts.
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Anchoring fronds: The slender yet sturdy stems securely anchor the delicate fronds to maximize light exposure for photosynthesis.
Adaptations for Survival
Adiantum Laevigatum has evolved some specialized adaptations in its roots and stems that allow it to survive in its native habitat:
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The shallow, dense root system can flourish even in nutrient-deficient soils by efficiently absorbing water and minerals from the upper layers of the soil.
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Velvety stems and shiny foliage help reduce water loss through transpiration, allowing the plant to tolerate dry periods.
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The wiry stems flex and bend with the wind without breaking, preventing damage to the fronds.
Care Tips for Healthy Roots and Stems
To maintain healthy roots and stems of your Adiantum Laevigatum houseplant, follow these care tips:
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Water thoroughly when the topsoil is partly dry to keep the shallow roots moist. Avoid overwatering.
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Provide bright, indirect light to allow stems to photosynthesize optimally.
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Use well-draining potting mix amended with compost or peat moss to aerate the soil.
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Mist the plant regularly or use a humidity tray to increase humidity around the foliage.
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Occasionally trim older fronds to stimulate new growth and prevent the stems from becoming leggy.
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Repot annually in spring to provide fresh soil and room for the root system to expand.
By understanding the anatomy and functions of its roots and stems, we can provide the best care for our Adiantum Laevigatum houseplants to keep them healthy and thriving for years to come. With the right conditions, this delicate tropical fern will gracefully adorn any indoor space.
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Adiantum External Features, Internal Structures, Reproduction and Life Cycle
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