Some plants begin looking very much as they will look for the duration of an entire season. Others, change immensely. This is one of the latter – and this is the beginning of the Maidenhair fern. Also known as the five-finger fern, it’s digits haven’t quite begun to uncurl and extend themselves, holding still like little knuckles. if they seem tense, it may be due to the cool weather we’ve had. Cold nights don’t make for pleasant conditions for maidens or men or all sorts of the beautiful in-between and outside.
Despite its delicate appearance, this is one of the hardier ferns. Its elegant leaves are so light and airy, they allow the coldest winds to pass right through them. It’s an ingenious hat trick for a plant, and the lesson is a very good one.
