Largeleaf maidenhair (Adiantum macrophyllum, Prodr. Veg. Ind. Occ.: 135 (1788))

Family: Pteridaceae

Author: Sw.

Bibliography: Prodr. Veg. Ind. Occ.: 135 (1788)

Year: 1788

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Adiantum

Vegetable: False

Observations: Mexico to Trop. America

Description

The Largeleaf maidenhair, scientifically known as Adiantum macrophyllum, is an intriguing and captivating fern appreciated for its lush, delicate appearance and notable textual contrast. Described initially in “Prodr. Veg. Ind. Occ.” by Sw. in 1788, this plant stands as a testament to the botanical richness of tropical America, stretching its presence from the diverse forests of Mexico down through the warmth and vibrancy of the tropics.

Belonging to the Pteridaceae family, the Largeleaf maidenhair holds a special place among ferns due to its distinctively large and charming fronds. The foliage exhibits a unique beauty that ranges from vibrant light greens to deeper, more mature shades as the leaves age. Each frond delicately hangs, giving the plant a cascading effect that enhances the aesthetic of both wild habitats and cultivated gardens.

In the wild, Adiantum macrophyllum thrives in humid, shaded environments typical of the tropics. It often grows on forest floors, near streams, and in moist, rocky areas where it helps add to the ecosystem’s structure and function. Due to its environmental preferences, it also serves as an excellent indicator of healthy forest ecosystems.

For plant enthusiasts and gardeners, the Largeleaf maidenhair is a popular choice due to its ornamental appeal. When cultivated, it requires conditions that mimic its natural habitat—ample humidity, indirect light, and well-draining, consistently moist soil are key to its successful growth. Ideal for terrariums, shaded gardens, or as an indoor plant, the Largeleaf maidenhair adds an elegant touch with its feather-like, arching leaves that can soften the look of any space.

In summary, the Largeleaf maidenhair (Adiantum macrophyllum) represents the botanical marvels of the tropical American regions, embodying both the diversity and lushness of these ecosystems. Whether observed in its natural environment or cared for within homes, this fern continues to enchant and provide a verdant, refreshing presence that highlights the beauty of the natural world.

Common Names

Eng: largeleaf maidenhair
En: Largeleaf maidenhair, Large-Leaf Maidenhair

Synonyms

• Adiantum macrophyllum f. albostriatum (Pynaert)
• Adiantum macrophyllum var. glaucum (T.Moore)

Distribution

• Argentina Northeast (native)
• Belize (native)
• Bolivia (native)
• Brazil North (native)
• Brazil Northeast (native)
• Brazil Southeast (native)
• Colombia (native)
• Costa Rica (native)
• Cuba (native)
• Ecuador (native)
• El Salvador (native)
• French Guiana (native)
• Galápagos (native)
• Guatemala (native)
• Guyana (native)
• Haiti (native)
• Honduras (native)
• Jamaica (native)
• Leeward Is. (native)
• Mexico Central (native)
• Mexico Gulf (native)
• Mexico Southeast (native)
• Mexico Southwest (native)
• Nicaragua (native)
• Panamá (native)
• Peru (native)
• Puerto Rico (native)
• Suriname (native)
• Trinidad-Tobago (native)
• Venezuela (native)
• Windward Is. (native)

Additional Images

Habit

Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – M. Jones (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Apr 19, 2022 by manuseitz (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Apr 19, 2022 by manuseitz (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 28, 2022 by manuseitz (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – M. Jones (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – M. Jones (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – M. Jones (cc-by-nc-sa)

Leaf

Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – M. Jones (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – M. Jones (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken May 28, 2022 by manuseitz (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 27, 2020 by Trochez Héctor (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 18, 2021 by andhika rama (cc-by-sa)

Other

Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – M. Jones (cc-by-nc-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2651850)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:17011380-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Adiantum macrophyllum Sw.)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth