Adiantum aethiopicum

Botanical name: Adiantum aethiopicum

Common name(s): Maidenhair, Makaka, True maidenhair

Plant facts:

A delicate yet surprisingly hardy native fern with graceful fan-shaped leaflets carried on glossy dark stems. This elegant species forms spreading clumps and is highly valued for its soft textured foliage and ornamental appearance. Despite its fine appearance, it is capable of thriving in both dry exposed sites and damp shaded habitats.

Natural habitat:

Occurs in coastal to lowland environments including stable dunes, open scrub, grassland, riparian forest, clay banks and shaded gullies.

Growing environment:

Shade tolerant, Damp soil loving, Coastal tolerant & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

Indigenous to New Zealand, occurring mainly through the North Island from Te Paki southwards, with isolated South Island records. Also naturally found in Australia, New Caledonia and South Africa.

Height:

10–45 cm tall

Foliage:

Soft yellow-green to bright green fronds with small fan-shaped leaflets on glossy dark reddish-black stems.

Uses:

• Indoor fern plantings
• Hanging baskets
• Terrariums
• Damp shaded gardens
• Underplanting in native gardens
• Decorative foliage plant

Appearance:

Growth habit:
A tufted stoloniferous fern that slowly spreads by creeping wiry rhizomes, often forming dense colonies.

Fronds:
Fronds are finely divided and airy in appearance, with delicate wedge-shaped or fan-like leaflets arranged along thin black stems.

Stems:
The glossy dark stipes contrast beautifully against the bright green foliage and are a key identifying feature.

Spores:
Spore-producing sori occur beneath the margins of the pinnules and are protected by small curved flaps.

How to grow:

Best grown in moist, humus-rich, free-draining soil in partial to full shade. Appreciates consistent moisture and shelter from drying winds. Excellent for pots, terrariums and shaded garden beds. Easily propagated by division or spores and can become very persistent once established.