Southern Maidenhair Fern - Adiantum capillus-veneris
 
 
Southern Maidenhair Fern, Adiantum capillus-veneris, a jewel of the southern landscape, is listed as endangered in North Carolina and threatened in Kentucky. A deciduous, clumping fern, Southern Maidenhair spreads by short, creeping rhizomes and thrives in moist, humus, rich alkaline to neutral soil in partial shade to shade. Fine, lacy foliage has a graceful and delicate character that makes this a great addition to a shaded landscape or rock garden. Growing up to 1′ in height, its fronds arise in clusters from rhizomes.