Maidenhair Fern
Adiantum spp. · Pteridaceae
How it looks
Maidenhair Fern is a fern with very fine, black leaf stalks bearing small fan-shaped or semicircular light green leaflets arranged like feathers. The leaflets are thin and soft, fluttering in the breeze, and it grows 8–20 in (20–50 cm) tall.
No toxicity data available
Maidenhair Fern is not listed in the ASPCA's toxic plants list for cats, and NC State Extension has no toxicity data for it either. With no confirmed evidence either way, we cannot call it safe — exercise caution if your cat has access to it.
Guide for parents
Maidenhair Fern has no official toxicity data, so it is hard to say for certain whether it is safe.
Several ferns appear on the ASPCA list, but the genus Adiantum is not among them. A general impression that ferns are harmless is not evidence about this one.
Its fronds are delicate enough that a single swipe damages them. It is often kept in a bathroom for the humidity — check that it is not also exposed to cleaning products or air fresheners. If ingestion is suspected, or you see vomiting or loss of appetite, contact your vet.
Details
- Scientific name
- Adiantum spp.
- Common name
- Maidenhair Fern
- Family
- Pteridaceae
- Source
- No confirmed source for cats — not listed by ASPCA
Related plants
Same plant family· Pteridaceae
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