Asplenium platyneuron

Found in rocky areas with excellent drainage, the thin fronds of the Ebony Spleenwort reach upwards in a disordered, glossy mass. Most likely, one or two leaves will be growing flat on the ground. Can tolerate full shade, and provides evergreen color along with dark purple central stipes. It grows up to 15" tall, and in May to September, the more erect fertile fronds develop oblong, herringbone sori on their undersides.

Its tendency to appear in disturbed soil and masonry make it a nice candidate for ruin gardens, rock gardens, or woodlands. They prefer subacid rock or mortar joints/limestone.

Interesting fact: A. platyneuron is the only North American fern that is also found in South Africa.

(Picture from Mobot.org)

Adiantum pedatum

Fan shaped fronds can reach 2 feet in compact, layered form. They prefer full or part shade in wetter areas. Can be divided in spring or fall when slow-growing clumps mature. Will creep as a ground cover if left alone. Returns from winter in April to accompany trilliums. Circular arrangement compliments other whorled leaf structures.

Ripens in August to October. Sow spores on humus-rich sterilized soil, cover in plastic. Pot when plantlets are large enough to handle, outside when at least 2 years old.

A particular characteristic of Maidenhair fern is the fiddleheads, which are multi-formed and deep red in color. Also, the stems are shiny black.

Also known as "Five-fingered Fern".

(Picture from USDA Forest Service)