Top 100

Boston fern

Nephrolepis exaltata

#39 of the top 100

Boston fern
CC BY-SA 4.0

How to care

Nephrolepis exaltata, commonly known as the Boston Fern, is a popular houseplant known for its lush, feathery fronds. It thrives in humid environments and prefers indirect light. Regular watering and misting are essential to maintain its vibrant appearance.

Light Preference

  • Part Shade
  • Full Shade

Size

Height
0.5 m – 1 m
Spread
1 m – 1.5 m
Years
2 – 5

Preferred soil

  • Loam
  • Sand
  • Acidic
  • Neutral

Propagation

  • Division

Life Cycle

Perennial

Lives for more than two years.

Hardiness Zone

9a

-6.7°C – -3.9°C

113

Leaves

  • Evergreen
  • Green

Other names

  • Boston blue bell fern
  • Boston swordfern
  • Fishbone fern
  • Fluffy ruffle fern
  • Sword fern
  • Tuber ladder fern
  • Wild boston fern

Taxonomy

Order
Polypodiales
Family
Nephrolepidaceae
Genus
Nephrolepis

Wikipedia

Wikipedia

Ready to take your plants to the next level?

Download Planti and start building a thriving indoor jungle.

Free to download · Optional premium upgrades