Northern Maidenhair Fern
(Adiantum pedatum)
Northern Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum pedatum)
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Agnieszka Kwiecień, Nova
CC BY-SA 4.0
Image By:
Agnieszka Kwiecień, Nova
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY-SA 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Agnieszka Kwiecień, Nova | License Type: CC BY-SA 4.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 | Uploader: Nova | Publisher: Wikimedia Commons | Title: Adiantum_pedatum_Adiantum_stopowe_2020-07-23_04.jpg | Notes: {{Information |description={{en|European lily of the valley (''Convallaria majalis'')}} |date=2021-05-13 |source=https://www.inaturalist.org/photos/128645829 |author=[https://www.inaturalist.org/users/3239633 Anastasiia Merkulova] |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Adiantum pedatum, commonly known as Northern Maidenhair Fern or Five-fingered Fern, is a deciduous perennial herbaceous plant native to moist, deciduous woodlands and forest floors in East Asia, Alaska, and the eastern United States. It typically grows to a height of 12 to 30 inches (30-76 cm) with a similar spread. The fern is characterized by its delicate, fan-shaped fronds with small leaflets on wiry, black stems that resemble hair, hence the name "maidenhair." The fronds emerge in a circular pattern that creates an elegant, airy appearance. Flowering does not occur in ferns, but the plant’s unique form and texture make it a visually appealing addition to shade gardens.
Northern Maidenhair Fern is valued for its graceful form and is often used in shaded garden areas, woodland plantings, and as a ground cover under larger plants. It thrives in moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil and benefits from consistent moisture without waterlogging. It is relatively low maintenance but may require protection from strong winds and direct sunlight. While it is not prone to serious pests or diseases, it can suffer from root rot if drainage is poor. This fern is not known for being invasive and is considered safe for planting in areas outside its native range.CC BY-SA 4.0
Northern Maidenhair Fern is valued for its graceful form and is often used in shaded garden areas, woodland plantings, and as a ground cover under larger plants. It thrives in moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil and benefits from consistent moisture without waterlogging. It is relatively low maintenance but may require protection from strong winds and direct sunlight. While it is not prone to serious pests or diseases, it can suffer from root rot if drainage is poor. This fern is not known for being invasive and is considered safe for planting in areas outside its native range.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Fern
- Height: 1-2 feet
- Width: 1-1.5 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: N/A
- Flowering Season: Non-Flowering
- Leaf Retention: Deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Part Shade, Full Shade
- Water: Medium
- Drainage: Fast, Medium
Common Uses
Bird Garden, Border Plant, Deer Resistant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rock Garden
Natural Habitat
Moist, deciduous woodlands and forest floors
Other Names
Common Names: Pointerweed , Five-Finger Fern , Five-Fingered Fern , Maidenfern , Adiante Du Canada , Frilandsadiantum , ê³µìž‘ê³ ì‚¬ë¦¬
Scientific Names: Adiantum pedatum , Adiantum pedatum var. pedatum , Adiantum grandifolium , Adiantum pedatum f. billingsii , Adiantum pedatum f. pedatum , Adiantum pedatum var. grandifolium , Adiantum pedatum var. originarium
GBIF Accepted Name: Adiantum pedatum L.