Adiantum aethiopicum
Common Maidenhair
Tufted perennial herb spreading from slender, scale-covered branching stems which creep both above and below ground to form a spreading groundcover.
Additional information
- FamilyPteridaceae (syn. Adiantaceae)
- StoreyLower storey
- Size10-45 cm x spreading
- Plant groupingFerns & Fern Allies
- LeavesDelicate lacy pale yellow-green fronds, darkening as they age, on slender reddish-brown to black stems. Frond divided 2-3 times, final leaflets fan- to wedge-shaped, 3-12 mm x 3-13 mm, outer edge scalloped.
- FlowersNon-flowering. 1-4 large spore cases sunken into the lobe of leaflet and covered by kidney-shaped leaflet flap.
- Bird attractingNo
- Butterfly attractingNo
- Frog habitatNo
- Growing conditionsMoist well drained soils near creeks and in foothills in moist to dry forests. Tolerates full sun as well as semi shade.
- Garden useExcellent garden plant for moist protected areas. Grow as a ground cover, in sunny spots in a fernery or in containers or hanging baskets, both indoors or outside.
- Commercially availableGenerally
- Conservation statusWidespread within the Shire
Photo Gallery
Photographer/s: 1, 3, 4 Marilyn Bull ©; 2 Yarra Ranges Council photo library
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