Maidenhair Fern

The maidenhair fern is a low maintenance plant that is easily grown in both the garden and as a houseplant. It thrivs in acidic, moist to wet, rich soil that drains well. In nature, the fern is found growing on rocks beside waterfalls or other places where there is a flow of water.

About Maidenhair Fern

The fern is a creeping plant that spreads through rhizomes. Given enough time, it creates dense colonies. It is deciduous and relinquishes its leaves in the fall, though pink fiddleheads start to appear in spring. The leaves themselves are bright green, attractive and fine textured. They give the plant its epithet of "pedatum," which means bird’s foot. The genus name, adiantum, is Greek for “unwetted,” for the plant easily sheds water. The stalks of the fern are curved, and the stems are fine as wires and range in color from red-brown to black. These stems contrast attractively with the green foliage.

Maidenhair Fern Is Hardy

The fern does not have serious problems with pests or diseases, though it can go dormant in high heat if it is not well-watered and if it is grown in bright sunshine. The gardener can tell if the plant needs watering because the fronds start to turn brown. The fern needs watering at least once a week and misting daily if it is grown as a houseplant. If it receives sun, it should only get a small amount in the early morning.

Planting Maidenhair Fern

The fern is an excellent choice for a woodland garden and gardens and paths made for shade-loving plants. It is a good choice for the shaded areas beneath trees where it can replace sun-loving turf grass. The plant is native to North America and can be part of a garden that features native plants. Plant Name: Maidenhair fern Latin name: Adiantum pedatum Hardy planting zone: 3 to 11 Mature height: 1 to 2 1/2 feet Spread: 1 to 1 1/2 feet Bloom season: Non-flowering Sun: Part to full shade Read more Read less