Family - Pteridaceae. Genus of 200-250 species of evergreen, semi-evergreen, and deciduous ferns, from tropical and subtropical areas of North and South America, but a few from temperate regions of Europe, Asia, Australia, and North America. Adiantum is not easily grown by the average indoor gardener. The plant grows best in diffused, bright light but not strong sunlight or dense shading. Strong light scorches the foliage and dim light causes weak growth. Maidenhair fern needs an evenly moist soil the year round. Best growth occurs in winter when temperatures are cool.