Adiantum aethiopicum|Common Maidenhair

Cardinia indigenous plant guide

Description

Tufted perennial herb spreading from slender, scale-covered branching stems which creep both above and below ground to form a spreading groundcover.

Size (W x H)

10-45cm x spreading

Leaves

Delicate 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, 3-12mm x 3-13mm, outer edge scalloped.

Flowers

Non-flowering. 1-4 large spore cases sunken into the lobe of leaflet and covered by kidney-shaped leaflet flap.

Flower colour

Non-flowering

Growing conditions

Moist well drained soils near creeks and in foothills in moist to dry forests. Tolerates full sun as well as semi shade.

Commonly used for

Excellent 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.

Available at indigenous nursery

Photo gallery

Acknowledgement

Thank you to Shire of Yarra Ranges for assistance in compiling this directory