Northern Maidenhair Fern

Light Needs

Full Shade to Partial Shade

(0 - 4 Hours Of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

12 - 30 Inches

Mature Spread

12 - 18 Inches

Growing Zones

3 to 8

With its feathery green foliage, the Northern Maidenhair Fern is ideal for brightening up a shady spot. Botanically known as Adiantum pedatum, the Maidenhair Fern can also be grown as a houseplant. Being a shade-loving perennial, this deciduous fern rarely grows beyond 2.5 feet high, which makes it ideal for any tricky, dark spots. Its ornamental green fronds can even be pink when young and contrast perfectly against its black wiry stems.

The Maidenhair Fern is suitable for growing in zones 3 to 8 and is native to the forests of Northeast America. As a clump-forming fern, it is perfectly matched for growing with other shade-loving perennials and woodland plantings. Whether grown on its own or in a group, the Maidenhair Fern will add texture and interest to any shaded area. 

Northern Maidenhair Fern Care

As a native woodland plant, it is no surprise that this fern prefers to be grown in a shaded and moist location. It thrives in fertile soil and will benefit from mulching with leaf mold around the root zone. Although able to tolerate some partial sunlight, too much sun can cause the fronds to brown and dry out. When grown in a suitably fertile soil, extra fertilization is not usually necessary. As it prefers moist soil, regular watering throughout the growing season is required. 

The Maidenhair Fern does not usually require any pruning. However, any spent or untidy fronds can be trimmed away in spring to make way for new growth. Although hardy, container-grown ferns can be moved under cover to protect them from the lowest temperatures and worst winter storms. 

Northern Maidenhair Fern Spacing

If given the correct growing conditions, the Maidenhair Fern can grow to an eventual 12-30 inches high by 12-18 inches wide. When planting this fern in a group, space plants around 15 to 18 inches apart.