Maidenhair Fern

Maidenhair Fern: The Maidenhair Fern is a perennial fern species that grows in humid and temperate areas of the United States.

You might also recognize them by their other names:

Rosy maidenhair

Northern maidenhair

Silver dollar maidenhair

American maidenhair

Don't let the many names trick you--they all refer to maidenhair ferns. The Maidenhair fern belongs to the Adiantum genus, which contains over two hundred species. Its scientific name,adiantum, comes from the Greek word adiantos, which means unwetted.

TN Nursery finds these ferns a favorite for gardeners who live in densely shaded or forested areas, especially if they have consistently moist soil, as you might find near a creek or stream.

Maidenhair Fern has an unique appearance

Maidenhair fern fronds grow from sixteen to twenty-six inches long and form an intriguing softly-rounded oval shape. The spring-green leaflets are shallow and contain two or three forked veins. The veins have a more prosperous, darker green, making a stunning contrast against the softer hue of the leaves.

Despite being robust, the maidenhair fern has a deceptive appearance, that of a delicate plant, due to its tiny leaves. Some describe the leaves as feathery or lacy due to foliage comprising many small, fan-shaped segments.

However, most describe the delicate leaves as "hair-like," thus lending this fern its common name.

The leaves emerge in late winter or early spring. The earliest leaves of the season are an attractive salmon color, but they soon turn a true spring green.

How to Care for a Maidenhair Fern

Maidenhair fern is gorgeous when you plant it in the middle or back row of a border planting or as a stand-alone specimen in a shade garden or water garden. It's also suitable for growing along the northern or shady sides of your home's foundation for a display of lively spring green.

It grows well in shady locations and is easy to establish. It forms large colonies over time, spreading from a dense root system. It takes little care other than watering. Occasionally, you may wish to dig up unwanted growth and divide it into smaller sections.

Maidenhair Ferns are available at TN Nursery

Order Your maidenhair ferns from TN Nursery today--we are here to help.