Maidenhair Fern

Adiantum raddianumDelta Fern Ferns

The Maidenhair genus of ferns, which originated in the Brazilian tropics, contains almost 200 different species and can now be found growing in temperate climates throughout the world. The graceful fronds can sometimes reach 20-24 inches in length and are covered in tiny triangular bright green leaflets called pinnae. During the spring, a Maidenhair Fern may produce fronds that seem to have tiny dark brown “spots” on the underside of the leaf edges. The “spots” are really fern spores and this is how the fern reproduces in nature. These specialized fronds do not live as long as regular fronds and if you don’t like the way they look just cut them off; it won’t hurt the plant at all. Although this plant does require more attention, with the proper care a Maidenhair Fern can live for a long while, growing more beautiful with each passing year.