MAIDEN-HAIR; a genus of the order of filices, belonging to the cryptogamia class of plants. The fructifications are collected in oval spots under the reflected tops of the fronds.

Species. Of this genus botanical writers enumerate fifteen species; the most remarkable are the following:

1. The capillus veneris, or true maiden-hair, is a native of the southern parts of France, from whence it is brought to Britain; though it is likewise said to grow plentifully in Cornwall, and the Trichomanes has been almost universally substituted for it.

2. The pedatum, or American maiden-hair, is a native of Canada; and grows in such quantities, that the French send it thence in packages for other goods, and the apothecaries of Paris use it for maiden-hair in the compositions wherein that is ordered.

3. The trapeziforme, or black American maiden-hair, is a native of Jamaica; and has shining black stalks, and leaves of an odd shape, which make an agreeable variety among other plants, so is sometimes cultivated in gardens.

Culture. The first species grows naturally out of the joints of walls, and fissures of rocks. It ought therefore to be planted in pots filled with gravel and lime-rubbish; where it will thrive much better than in good earth. It must also be sheltered under a frame during the winter.—The second is to be treated in the same manner; but the third will not thrive in Britain, unless kept in a stove during the winter.

Properties. The true maiden-hair has been greatly celebrated in disorders of the breast proceeding from a thinness and acrimony of the juices; and likewise for opening obstructions of the visera, and promoting the expectoration of tough phlegm. But modern practice pays little regard to it; the asplenium trichomanes, or English maiden-hair, supplying its place. See Asplenum.