California maidenhair fern
Adiantum jordanii
Last reviewed: August 2026
Toxicity unknown
California maidenhair fern (Adiantum jordanii) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
8"–18" H × 12"–18" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
CA, OR
Before you buy
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A delicate fern with fan-shaped leaflets on shiny black wiry stems, forming loose clumps on shaded slopes and streambanks. Dies back during the dry season and resprouts with the return of moisture.
Wildlife value
Provides shaded cover for small invertebrates along moist slopes and streambanks.
Common questions
- How much sun does California maidenhair fern need?
- California maidenhair fern grows best in part shade conditions.
- Where is California maidenhair fern native?
- California maidenhair fern (Adiantum jordanii) is native to CA, OR, per vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists.
Native range data from vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
If something looks wrong
Common plant problems, and what to check first
These come up on almost any plant. Each guide lists the likely causes in the order they are worth ruling out, with one thing to check before you act on any of them, and links to the source it came from.
- It is dying right after planting
- Leaves turning yellow
- Wilting even though I watered it
- Brown crispy leaf tips
- Bugs on the plant
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