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 Adiantum pedatum

Northern maidenhair 

 Scientific name: Adiantum pedatum

Common name: Maindenfern, Maidenhair, Maidenhair fern, Northern maidenhair

Region of origin: North America

 


Photo courtesy Dunn Gardens


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Highlights:

Hardiness: Zones 3-8

Height x Spread: 10 to 18 in. x about 18 in.

Season of bloom: None

Flower color: Flowerless

Exposure: Full to partial shade

Soil requirements: Well-drained soils

Moisture requirements: Moist soil

Physical description: Northern maidenhair is a deciduous, clump-forming fern. The vivid green frond is branched at the summit of the slender, shiny, reddish-brown to black stalk. The pinnae spread horizontally in a circle.

Optimal growing conditions: The maidenhair fern grows well in average moist, well-drained soil in full to partial shade. It prefers acidic soil in full shade.

Susceptibility to pests and diseases: This plant has no serious pest problems. However, if the soil is not moist enough and/or if the plant is exposed to too much sun, the fronds can become brown.

Use: The maidenhair fern is well suited for the shaded border, woodland garden, or shaded rock garden. The Maidenhair fern is a nice complement to Hosta and Brunnera.

Additional Notes: The Southern maidenhair(Adiantum capillus-veneris) is similar but the stems of Northern maidenhair are erect and fork in two, while the stems of Southern maidenhair are arched and do not fork.

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