This form of A. raddianum (Delta Maidenhair Fern) has pinkish, almost violet colored new growth that fades to a luscious green and a slightly denser habit than typical for the species, with triangular fronds that can reach 12” by 12”. The pinnae tend to overlap along the margins, giving it a wonderful feathery appearance. Christopher J. Goudey notes in his book Maidenhair Ferns in Cultivation that this particular cultivar comes true from spore! In cultivation it is very to similar to A. raddianum, which is hardy in USDA Zones 8-10 or can be kept as a houseplant in colder zones. In our trials the intense tinting of the new groth allowed this fern to tolerate more bright direct light than other cultivars of A. raddianum, making it a great candidate for a bright window or garden site. It prefers part sun to part shade, and to be watered lightly but not to be drenched; situate on a slope to ensure maximum drainage in wet months and avoid excessive watering of the foliage or provide good air circulation. As a houseplant, water it periodically at the base and allow it to begin to dry out before watering again.

Frond Condition: Semi-evergreen in marginal climates; Evergreen in milder climates or as a houseplant

Mature Size: 12” (1’), colonizing rhizome

Origin: Mexico, South America, Southeast Asia; ‘Brilliantelse’ is noted as a cultivar selected out of A. raddianum ‘Goldelse’, which itself was selected out of A. raddianum ‘Elegans’ in 1911.

Cultivation requirements: Part Sun to Part Shade, Lightly Moist to Evenly Moist

USDA Zones: 8, 9, 10, or as a houseplant