Adiantum sp. nova

This delicate Maidenhair relative was collected by John Fairey and Carl Schoenfeld in 1990 in Mexico, and still resides in the deep shade of our Woodland Garden today. Like other ferns in this Genus, our Adiantum has airy rounded foliage supported by very thin stems, which over time tend to waterfall downwards, reminding the viewer of cascading locks of hair. This specimen in particular is special, though, thanks to its dark black stems and bright green false indusium (a folded leaf structure that holds and protects the spores of the fern). These two characteristics make it appear as though the foliage is floating in the air with edges highlighted by the sun. It really is gorgeous! Plant in full shade and in moist soil. Over time, the single plant will widen and create a small colony, so give it a little room to grow.