makaka
about.
Adiantum aethiopicum | maidenhair, makaka, true maidenhair
A delicate fern with graceful, fan-shaped leaflets held on fine black stems, forming soft, yellow-green foliage. It spreads by creeping rhizomes that can create a dense groundcover in sheltered, moist sites. Outdoors it thrives in dappled shade with consistently damp, well-drained soil, eventually reaching around 50 cm tall, though often smaller when grown in pots. Well suited to ferneries, shaded borders, or as an underplanting, it is also a favourite indoor fern — especially in bathrooms or kitchens where humidity helps it flourish. Over time, a protective skirt of old fronds builds up around the base, supporting new growth and best left undisturbed.
typical habitat.
coastal forest
lowland forest
scrubland
dunes
drainage.
moist
well drained
sun.
full shade
partial shade
mature specifications.
height | 30cm
width | 40cm
did you know?
A historical account notes that a lotion prepared from the fronds and roots of Adiantum aethiopicum was used to treat sore eyes.