Botanical name:

Adiantum formosum

Common name(s):

Giant maidenhair, plumed maidenhair

About:

The largest of New Zealand’s maidenhair ferns, this rare species is now found only in a limited area near the Manawatū River. It features a creeping rhizome and large, triangular, deeply divided dark green fronds that can reach up to 80cm in length. Thriving in deep, moist, and somewhat sandy soil, it prefers shaded or semi-shaded environments for optimal growth.

Natural habitat:

A species of alluvial forest and gorge sides. Usually found in shaded sites amidst drifts of leaf litter with little (if any) associated vegetation. It rarely grows in full sun.

Growing environment:

Shade & Wetland tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

In New Zealand’sNorth Island only, with historic records from near Ahipara (Reef Point), Herekino, and the North Wairoa River near Dargaville. The only existent populations now known only to occur along either side of the Manawatu River Gorge. Present in Eastern Australia where it is abundant and under no threat.

Height: 80cm

Flowering: N/A Spore producing

Fruiting: N/A

Uses:

Riparian plantings & Forests

How to grow:

Easily grown from rooted pieces. Will do best in a fertile, free draining, moist but not excessively wet soil in filtered light (semi-shade). Once established specimens shouldn’t be disturbed. A very attractive plant which is an excellent subject to plant under tall trees in a woodland garden setting.