Adiantum pedatum, Maidenhair Fern grows delicate, 8-30" fronds, with dark, shiny stems, in a nearly perfect circle. This graceful, fan-like pattern is unique among native ferns. The fronds arise from a creeping rootstock in clusters. Burgundy red fiddleheads appear in early spring. The roots are wiry and black, colonizing in favorable sites. This fern is quite easy to grow if it is provided with the right conditions. Generally favors soils that are both humus-rich, moist, and well-drained. It grows both in soils and on rock faces and ledges when adequate moisture is present.