This fern has a long creeping branched rhizome with erect fronds and forms a clump habit. The large erect to drooping branched fronds have purple-black stalks and has numerous bright green diamond-shaped leaflets and the fertile fronds appear in autumn.  

Hardiness zones 9 to 11 

Adiantum formosum is naturally found from eastern Australia to the north island of New Zealand growing in rainforests and along creeks forming large colonies. 

It prefers well drained fertile moist humus rich deep sandy soil, in a shaded to a semi-shaded wind protected position and is frost and drought tender.

The Giant Maidenhair is grown for its foliage and clumping habit. It is planted in shaded borders or as an understorey in rainforest settings and is used around water features. It is suitable for coastal and low-mountain regions it establishes in 2 to 3 years. It is also grown in containers and in cold climates under glass. ID 2226

Adenium (a-Den-ee-um) formosum (for-mo-sum)

Pteridaceae (TE-ri-de-AY-see-ee)
(Adiantaceae)