Plant Description

Adiantum aleuticum

This small, delicate fern prefers full shade and moist soils. Its lacy leaves grow along a black stem, making it fairly unique among ferns.

A green maidenhair fern viewed from above

PLANT CHARACTERISTICS

Characteristic Plant Information
Height 1-3 ft
Growth Rate Medium
Life Span Perennial
Moisture Use Consistent water
Drought Tolerance Low
Deer Browse Low
Wildlife Value Provides refuge for birds, amphibians, and other small animals
Resprout Ability Will regrow following low-severity fire
Hardiness USDA Zones 3-11
Habitat Type Woodlands, especially near streams or waterfalls

SCIENTIFIC CLASSIFICATION

Classification Scientific Name
Kingdom Plantae
Clade Tracheophytes
Order Polypodiales
Family Pteridaceae
Genus Adiantum
Species A. aleuticum

Planting information

Sun

Partial or full shade

Soil

Moist or wet soils, rich in organic matter

Special Uses

Great for shaded, woodland gardens; creates refugia for small animals

Ease of Care

Moderate

PLANT IMAGES