Adiantum pedatum - Maidenhair Fern

The Maidenhair Fern is recognized by a shiny purple leaf axis and a graceful, flat leaf outline.  The leaves are up to 14 inches in length.  The overall shape of the plant gives a fan-shaped impression.  The stipe forks at the summit, and several pinnae branch from the fork.

The plant grows from 8 inches to 20 inches tall, and is found in rich, rocky woods.