Botanical Name: Adiantum fragrans

Common Name: Maidenhair Fern

Hardiness Zone: Perennial in Mild Climates (USDA Zones 8–10); Houseplant Elsewhere

Size: 12–18" Tall × 12–18" Wide

Growth Habit: Compact, Arching, Clump-Forming

Sunlight: Bright Indirect Light Indoors; Partial to Full Shade Outdoors

Soil: Moist, Well-Drained, Organic-Rich Soil

Water Needs: Moderate to High; Consistent Moisture Required

Humidity: Prefers High Humidity

Fertilizer: Light Feeding During Active Growth

Features: Fine, Lacy Fronds, Soft Green Color, Delicate Texture, Shade-Loving

Uses: Houseplants, Shade Gardens, Woodland Gardens, Containers, Bathrooms & Sunrooms

Patent: ❌ Not Patented

Propagation: ✔ Propagation Allowed (Division)

More About Maidenhair Fern ‘Fragrans’

Maidenhair Fern ‘Fragrans’ is one of those plants that brings instant softness wherever it’s placed. The fronds are finely divided and almost feather-like, moving gently with the slightest air current. It’s not bold or flashy—and that’s exactly the appeal. This is a plant that adds elegance through texture rather than color.

Compared to larger maidenhair types, ‘Fragrans’ stays compact and well-mannered. The fresh green fronds arch outward from slender black stems, creating a light, airy look that works beautifully in containers or shaded garden beds. Indoors, it has a graceful presence that feels calm and natural, especially in rooms with good humidity.

This fern does best with consistency. Even moisture, gentle light, and protection from drying winds or harsh sun go a long way toward keeping it happy. When those needs are met, it’s surprisingly rewarding and long-lived.

Why We Like It (Our Trials)

At Garden Delivery, Maidenhair Fern ‘Fragrans’ has proven to be a favorite for shaded patios and indoor spaces where texture matters. In our trials, it held its compact form nicely and refreshed quickly after watering, especially in protected, humid environments. It never felt messy or overgrown.

I also appreciate how versatile it is. It works just as well tucked into a woodland planting as it does in a decorative container by a window or in a bathroom with natural light. For customers looking to soften a space without adding color clutter, this fern is an easy recommendation.

Maidenhair Fern vs. Other Ferns

Maidenhair Fern is the most delicate and refined fern that we carry. It’s far less forgiving than Asparagus Ferns if it dries out, and it doesn’t tolerate neglect the way Holly Ferns might outdoors. What you get in return, though, is unmatched softness. The fine, wiry stems hold the fronds just loose enough that they flutter with the slightest air movement. Nothing else on this list moves or catches light quite the same way.

In practical terms, Maidenhair Fern is best chosen intentionally. Compared to Button Ferns, it has a much lighter texture but demands more consistency. It works beautifully where humidity is naturally higher—bathrooms, greenhouses, protected shade. Compared to Staghorn Ferns, it’s less dramatic but far more traditional. It’s not the fern I recommend for beginners, but for gardeners who enjoy tending and observing, it’s deeply rewarding. When it’s happy, it’s one of the most beautiful ferns you can grow.