Looking for something different from the usual broad-leaved houseplants? The Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata) brings a softer, fuller look with its long, arching fronds and delicate green leaflets. This plant grows a full, bushy mound of long, arching fronds that are lined with small, ruffled leaflets. It has been a favourite in British homes since Victorian times, when ferns were ever-present in parlours and conservatories. This tells you all you need to know about the timeless charm that this plant brings to UK households. Even today, it still looks just as good spilling over a plant stand or a hanging basket.
The Boston Fern grows best in consistently moist compost and humid conditions, making a bright bathroom or kitchen away from direct sunlight a suitable place for it. But it can also handle a spot on a plant stand that is placed a little back from a north or east-facing window. Go for the 9cm size as a compact starter, or choose the 12cm for a fuller fern with longer fronds.
- Its long, arching fronds and soft, bright green leaflets bring lush greenery to shelves, plant stands and hanging baskets.
- You can have this as a hanging or potted plant. It looks great at any height.
- The Boston Fern loves humidity, which makes this an ideal plant for bathrooms and kitchens.
- Boston ferns are generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs, making them a suitable choice for pet-owning households.
Please note: the decorative pot shown in the images is for illustration only and is not included.
Plant genus Nephrolepis
Common Name Boston Fern
Plant type Ferns
Foliage type Evergreen, Perennial
Hardiness Tropical
Soil acidity Neutral
Leaf colour Green
Growth Rate Moderate
Edible Use No
Light Required Bright In-direct sunlight
Watering Keep the compost lightly and evenly moist, watering when the surface just begins to dry. Avoid both prolonged dryness and waterlogged roots, and let excess water drain freely after each watering. Water a little less in winter, while maintaining reasonable humidity around the foliage.
Best Growing Conditions Grow in bright, indirect light and protection from harsh direct sun, ideally at around 18-26°C, away from cold draughts and sudden temperature changes. Use a good-quality, well-drained houseplant compost and make sure excess water can drain freely from the pot. Most houseplants perform best with moderate humidity and should be kept away from strong radiator heat.
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