Pteridaceae

This family is large and diverse.The sori (spore-bearing structures) are mostly on the leaf (pinna) edges. The maiden-hair ferns belong to this family.

Adiantum cunninghamii

The most common species of this family. Found on banks in coastal and lowland forest.

This image shows the sori on the edge of the pinnae of Adiantum cunninghamii.

Adiantum hispidulum

Found in the upper North Island on dry suuny banks and in open bush.

Adiantum raddianum

An introduced species.

Adiantum viridescens

Common in the North Island down to Taranaki and Bay of Plenty, and then in scattered areas to Nelson and Marlborough.

home

ferns