maidenhair

American  

[meyd-n-hair] / ˈmeɪd nˌhɛər /

noun

1. any fern of the genus Adiantum, the cultivated species of which have fine, glossy stalks and delicate, finely divided fronds.

---

Etymology

Origin of maidenhair

Middle English word dating back to 1325–75; see origin at maiden, hair

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

maidenhair

Plant maidenhair spleenwort in a container, where you can appreciate its beauty up close.

From Seattle Times ● Nov. 18, 2023

In 2019, Corteva reported that genes for proteins found in maidenhair ferns could protect soybeans from soybean looper and velvetbean caterpillars, and since then both groups have sharpened their focus on ferns.

From Science Magazine ● Nov. 16, 2023

And then, sure, like I like to take on a fun challenge now and again with a more difficult plant to care for — but I have never been successful keeping a maidenhair fern alive.

From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 19, 2021

In explaining the utility of plant collecting for the gardener, he points out a clump of Southern maidenhair fern, a species not considered hardy in northern states.

From Washington Post ● Sep. 11, 2019

Beside this tiny stream, wherever enough earth collected for root-hold, colonies of plants grew, wild grape and little palms, maidenhair fern, hibiscus, and tall pampas grass with feathery rods raised above the spike leaves.

From "The Pearl" by John Steinbeck