Adiantum cunninghamii, commonly known as Cunningham’s Maidenhair Fern, is a semi-evergreen fern native to the moist, shaded forest floors and stream banks of New Zealand. It typically grows to a height of 24 inches (60 cm) with a similar spread. This fern features delicate, fan-shaped fronds with small, rounded leaflets (pinnae) on wiry, black stems. The fronds are light green and can add a fine-textured element to shaded garden areas. The sori, which are reproductive structures where spores are produced, are discretely located under the curved leaf margins, making them less visible and contributing to the plant’s overall aesthetic appeal.

Cunningham’s Maidenhair Fern is valued for its graceful appearance and is often used in shaded garden settings, such as woodland gardens, ferneries, and as an understory plant in shaded borders. It thrives in moist, well-drained, humus-rich soils and prefers a sheltered location away from strong winds. While it can tolerate dry periods once established, consistent moisture will keep it looking its best. It requires dappled shade to full shade and should be protected from direct sunlight to prevent leaf scorch. This fern is generally low-maintenance, but it can be sensitive to pests such as scale insects and mealybugs. It is not known to be invasive and does not have aggressive roots, making it a safe choice for gardeners seeking a non-disruptive plant.CC BY-SA 4.0