Adiantum fulvum

The New Zealand Maidenhair Fern

A very attractive small fern, Adiantum fulvum is commonly called the ‘New Zealand Maidenhair Fern’. With soft mid to deep green foliage it grows naturally as an understory plant in moist conditions.

The leaves grow very close to the stem giving a mass os dense foliage. New foliage is an attractive pale orange to yellow, turing to green as it matures.

This is a fern that grows very well in cooler positions, it is an excellent choice for damp positions next to buildings. This a very different species to the Common Maidenhair Fern.

Quick Facts

• Botanical Name: Adiantum fulvum
• Common Name: New Zealand Maidenhair Fern
• Height: 30 cm
• Spread: 30–60 cm
• Position: Part shade to full shade
• Soil: Moist, humus-rich soil
• Foliage: Evergreen
• Suitable For: Containers, hanging baskets, shade gardens, indoor growing

Landscaping uses

Looking to create a low-maintenance shade garden with year-round beauty? Adiantum fulvum is a must-have fern that elevates your design while supporting a healthy, biodiverse landscape.

Why Choose Adiantum fulvum for Your Shade Garden?

Adiantum fulvum offers year-round appeal with its evergreen foliage and delicate structure. Unlike many bold-textured shade plants, this maidenhair fern softens the landscape and complements a naturalistic design style. It performs best in partial to full shade and appreciates protection from direct sunlight, especially during hot afternoon

Widely grown as an indoor plant, Adiantum fulvum works well in containers as well as in hanging baskets. It is also suited to growing outdoors on the margins of shaded water features and ponds.

Its fine-textured foliage contrasts beautifully with broader-leaved shade plants, making it useful for softening pathways, shaded courtyards and woodland-style gardens.

With a natural upright growth habit, this attractive little fern will reach around 30 cm in height.

Best Companion Plants for Adiantum fulvum

When planning a shade garden layout, pairing Adiantum fulvum with compatible companion plants enhances both texture and visual interest. Look for plants with contrasting leaf shapes, colors, and heights, but similar moisture and light requirements.

Good companion plants include Hostas, Heuchera, Hellebores, Clivia, Blechnum species and other moisture-loving shade plants. Combining different foliage shapes and textures helps create a more natural woodland effect.

How To Grow Adiantum fulvum – Basic Care

A moist soil rich in organic matter is essential, preferably slightly acidic with a position in dappled to light shade. Dig in some well rotted compost and a cow manure before planting if needed.

Do not allow the soil or potting mix to dry completely, regular watering will be required especially in summer.

Good drainage is also important, as constantly waterlogged soils can lead to root problems despite the plant’s preference for consistent moisture.

Applications of liquid seaweed fertiliser from spring through to autumn will help promote strong growth.

Over time this is a fern that will slowly spread by underground rhizomes to form a good colony. Easily divided if required.

Commonly asked Questions

Is Adiantum fulvum evergreen?

Yes, Adiantum fulvum is evergreen in suitable climates and provides year-round foliage interest.

Can Adiantum fulvum be grown indoors?

Yes. It grows well indoors in bright filtered light with consistent moisture and good humidity.

How large does Adiantum fulvum grow?

Most plants reach around 30 cm in height and slowly spread by underground rhizomes.

Is Adiantum fulvum drought tolerant?

No. Like most maidenhair ferns it requires consistently moist soil and should not be allowed to dry out completely.

Where To Buy

Adiantum fulvum is available for sale from the following nurseries.