SKU: 3325028549

Boston Fern Plants ‘Nephrolepis exaltata’

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Boston Fern Plants ‘Nephrolepis exaltata’The Boston fern plant, known as Nephrolepis exaltata, are known for their feathery, arching fronds and lush green foliage, and are among the most popular indoor and outdoor ferns. This popular house plant has been a household favorite since the Victorian era, when it was frequently used to add elegance to indoor spaces. With its gracefully arching fronds that spill over the edges of pots or hanging baskets, the Boston fern lends a soft, natural beauty

The Boston fern plant, known as Nephrolepis exaltata, are known for their feathery, arching fronds and lush green foliage, and are among the most popular indoor and outdoor ferns.

This popular house plant has been a household favorite since the Victorian era, when it was frequently used to add elegance to indoor spaces. With its gracefully arching fronds that spill over the edges of pots or hanging baskets, the Boston fern lends a soft, natural beauty to any room or shaded garden area.  

Native to Central and South America, the Nephrolepis exaltata plant gets its common name ‘Boston fern’ because of its popularity in Boston during the 19th century, this wild Boston fern also goes by names like "Sword Fern" and "Ladder Fern," which refer to the distinctive, sword-shaped fronds and the laddered arrangement of its leaflets. While the origin of the "Boston" moniker isn’t entirely clear, some say it began after a grower in Boston helped popularize the plant. The fern’s botanical name, Nephrolepis exaltata, describes its species and genus, with “exaltata” meaning “lofty” or “elevated,” a nod to the upright nature of its fronds before they cascade downward in a beautiful display.

The Boston fern’s defining feature is its feathery or lacy fronds that arch gracefully from a central base, with each frond covered in numerous tiny, darker green leaflets arranged in a ladder-like pattern.

These fronds can grow up to 3 feet long, creating an eye-catching, cascading effect that makes the fern ideal for hanging baskets or decorative containers.

The plant grows in a clumping form, with new fronds sprouting from a central rhizome, gradually expanding its coverage area over time.

Boston ferns do not produce flowers or seeds.Instead, they reproduce through tiny spores that develop on the undersides of mature fronds.

These spores, which look like small brown dots or lines, are released into the air when conditions are right, potentially germinating to create new ferns. While this natural reproduction process is less commonly observed in indoor settings, it’s fascinating to note how Boston fern propagates and adapt to their surroundings in the wild. This spore-based reproduction is also one of the reasons ferns have been able to thrive for millions of years, outlasting many other plant species. 

The ability of Boston fern plants to enhance indoor air quality is one of their many wonderful advantages. NASA research has shown that ferns are among the best plants for filtering out common indoor air pollutants, including formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene. This makes them not only an attractive addition to homes but also a healthy one. Additionally, it releases moisture into the air through a process called transpiration, which can help increase humidity levels in dry indoor spaces. This can be particularly beneficial in climates or rooms where air conditioning or heating dries out the air, making the fern an excellent choice for creating a more comfortable environment. 

When and How to Water Your Boston Fern Plants 

Boston ferns are fairly drought-tolerant plants, but their lush, vibrant fronds thrive best with consistent moisture. While they can handle brief dry spells, prolonged periods without water will cause the fronds to wilt and the tips to turn brown. 

If grown in hanging baskets or pots, it’s especially important to monitor soil moisture regularly, as the soil in containers dries out faster than in-ground settings. Indoor Boston ferns benefit from a humid environment, as they naturally grow in shaded, moist forests, so regular watering and misting help keep them looking their best. 

In the spring and fall, during the growing season, they are more active and require consistent watering. Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Watering every 2-3 days is often ideal, depending on temperature, humidity, and container size. If you feel that the top inch of soil is dry, it's time to water. Thoroughly water until you see excess draining out, which helps flush out salts and mineral buildup from the soil. High humidity also helps maintain moisture; placing the fern on a humidity tray or misting it daily is beneficial. 

During late fall and winter, in the dormant season, Boston fern plants require less frequent watering since their growth slows down. Water your fern plant in winter only when the top inch or so of soil feels dry, which may be every 1-2 weeks. Avoid overwatering, as the plant is less active and more prone to root rot. Reduce misting, as cooler indoor conditions can lead to fungal issues. While humidity remains important, a more relaxed watering routine during dormancy will help the fern rest and prepare for the next growing season. 

Light Requirements – Where to Place Your Boston Fern Plant 

For indoor growing Boston ferns, an east- or north-facing window is ideal, as these locations offer morning or filtered light without the harshness of the midday sun. If the only available spot is near a south- or west-facing window, try placing this indoor plant a few feet away from the glass or using sheer curtains to diffuse the light. In lower light levels, they may grow more slowly, but artificial grow lights can supplement natural light, especially in winter. 

These ferns prefer relatively stable lighting without abrupt changes, so keeping them in a well-lit area with steady, indirect sunlight will promote healthy growth. A lack of light may cause the fronds to thin out or the plant to develop a yellowish hue, signaling that it needs a brighter environment.

Turning the fern every few weeks helps ensure even growth, as all sides of the plant get exposure to light. Additionally, indirect light helps retain humidity around the plant, which is essential for indoor ferns, as they are sensitive to dry indoor air.

When you grow Boston fern outdoors, it prefers a shaded or partially shaded location. It naturally thrives in environments where it can protect from intense sunlight by the forest canopy, so replicating this in outdoor spaces is ideal. Dappled shade from trees or filtered light under a porch or pergola provides the best outdoor conditions. While Boston fern can tolerate some early morning or late afternoon sun, direct midday sun can quickly dry out their fronds, especially in hot climates. Garden spots that offer indirect light help outdoor ferns maintain lush growth and vibrant color. 

Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs 

When it comes to soil for your Boston fern, it's essential to provide them with a well-draining potting mix that retains moisture. A good mix for fern plants includes peat moss, perlite, and pine bark to ensure proper drainage while holding enough moisture for the plant. This type of soil mimics the fern's natural habitat and helps prevent root rot, a common issue with overwatering. Instead, make or buy a well-draining potting mix, or ideally use our specialized potting mix, opens in a new tab that contains 5 natural substrates and mycorrhizae to promote the development of a strong root system that helps your fern plants to thrive. 

For fertilizing Boston fern, it's best to use a balanced liquid NPK fertilizer diluted to half strength. During the growing season in spring, you can fertilize your Boston fern once a year. In contrast, do not fertilize your plant during fall and winter when the plant is not actively growing. Over-fertilizing can harm the fern, so it's crucial to follow the recommended dosage and frequency to provide the necessary nutrients without overwhelming the plant.

Hardiness Zones & More 

When growing indoors, the potted Boston fern plants prefer temperatures between 60-75°F. These ferns thrive in environments with moderate humidity levels, ideally between 40% to 60%. To increase humidity for indoor Boston fern, you can mist the plant regularly or use a humidifier near the plant to create a more suitable environment. 

For outdoor Boston ferns, they are typically hardy in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11. These ferns prefer temperatures above 60°F and thrive in shaded or partially shaded areas with high humidity levels. If you live in a region with colder temperatures, it's best to bring your plants inside during the winter months to protect them from frost damage. 

In the wild, it’s often found growing in the understory of forests where it benefits from natural shade and humidity. Boston fern thrives beautifully in a bed of moist sphagnum moss, which helps retain the consistent humidity and moisture it craves for its lush, delicate fronds. The plant’s adaptation to these conditions makes it ideal for indoor spaces where light levels are lower.  

Wildlife: Boston Fern Attract the Following Friendly Pollinators 

Boston ferns are not known for attracting pollinators as they reproduce through spores rather than flowers that would typically attract pollinators like bees or butterflies. These ferns rely on spores for reproduction, which are produced on the underside of their fronds and are dispersed by the wind to propagate new plants.

Toxicity: According to the ASPCA, the Nephrolepis exaltata are considered non-toxic to pets and humans. This means that if your curious pets, such as cats or dogs, happen to nibble on the fronds of a Boston fern, it is unlikely to cause serious harm or toxicity.  

How to Propagate Your Boston Fern Plants

The Boston ferns can be propagated through division or spores. With a sharp knife, divide the root ball of an established plant into smaller sections, each with roots and fronds that can then be replanted to grow into new ferns. Spore propagation is another method where you can collect spores from mature fronds, sow them on a suitable growing medium, and provide the right conditions for them to germinate and grow into new plants. Both division and spore propagation are effective ways to expand your Boston fern collection or share plants with friends and family.

Key Takeaways 

  1. While Boston ferns prefer consistently moist soil, they are fairly drought-tolerant and can survive short dry spells, making them adaptable for various indoor and outdoor environments.
  2. Boston ferns are known to purify indoor air by filtering out toxins like formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene, and they also help increase humidity through transpiration, improving air quality in dry spaces.
  3. This fern thrives in bright, indirect light, making it well-suited for east- or north-facing windows indoors or shaded outdoor spots that replicate its native forest floor habitat.
  4. Boston ferns require minimal pruning and care, growing best with regular watering, occasional misting, and moderate humidity, which makes them an accessible choice for beginners.
  5. Instead of flowers and seeds, Boston ferns reproduce through spores located on the undersides of mature fronds, a unique characteristic among many popular houseplants.

The Bottom Line

Overall, the Boston ferns (Nephrolepis exaltata) are low-maintenance perennial plants for both plant enthusiasts and new gardeners, known for their lush, arching fronds and natural elegance. Ideal for adding a vibrant touch of greenery indoors or enhancing shaded areas outdoors, these ferns are versatile, house plants that suit a range of environments. With moderate drought tolerance and air-purifying qualities, they offer more than just beauty, improving indoor air quality and adding moisture to the air. Boston ferns thrive in indirect light and appreciate consistent moisture and humidity, though they can adapt to slightly drier conditions with regular care. Their unique spore-based reproduction adds to their charm, showcasing a fascinating aspect of plant biology. With minimal pruning and straightforward needs, Boston ferns bring classic appeal and numerous benefits to any space, making them an excellent choice for buyers looking to invest in a durable, easy-care plant. Order your very own Boston fern for sale today! 

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4.1 ★★★★★
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R
Rocco
Battle Creek, US
★★★★★ 5
Cardinal Cantalamessa is a Saint!
Format: Hardcover
This book has the wisdom of the fathers infused with the gentle Grace of the Holy Spirit, written for modern day Christian readers.
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Reviewed in the United States on December 20, 2024
J
jpmath
Boise, US
★★★★★ 4
Beautiful and profound, albeit flawed
Format: Hardcover
What I'd really like to rate this is 4 1/2 stars, because it isn't perfect, but it's better than a 4. I just can't bear to give it a 5, for reasons described below. The book has three main parts, each named for a theological virtue of the title. Altogether there are 40 chapters: 14 dedicated to faith, 10 to hope, and 16 to charity. A couple of "Bonus" chapters called "Excursus" take up some interesting theological questions that are related but don't quite fall under any one topic: did Jesus possess the theological virtues? and From God as Love to the Filioque. The book is deeply learned and cites theologians through the centuries, including a few I'd never heard of despite a lot of formal and informal theological study. Of course you meet the usual suspects such as Origen, pseudo-Dionysius, Augustine, Thomas Aquinas, Catherine of Siena, John of the Cross, Mother Teresa, and others; but: have YOU heard of St. Zeno of Verona before? If not, you're in for a treat! The text has more of an Augustinian flavor than a Scholastic one. (I should qualify that claim by admitting that I am at best an armchair theologian, so don't quote me on that.) But, for example: Chapter 39 discusses Beauty, uses the idea of God's eternal Beauty to explain the Trinity, and concludes with St. Augustine's "recipe" for becoming beautiful. Indeed, an in-depth discussion of the Trinity doesn't appear at all until Part 3 on Charity, rather than in the chapter on Faith! An important distinction that Fr. Cantalamessa draws is between "objective" aspects of a theological virtue and the "subjective" aspects of the same. The "objective" aspects refer to the object of the virtue, such as God Himself; the "subjective" aspects refer to how we experience them. He points out that, historically, the "objective" view tended to predominate in theological discussion, whereas the "subjective" view tends to dominate more recently, almost to the exclusion of the objective. It will probably not surprise the reader that Fr. Cantalamessa, former Preacher to the Papal Hosuehold, comes down squarely in the Catholic approach of "both/and", and he elaborates on this. A very appealing aspect of this book is the occasional use of parable and analogy to explain difficult subjects: a parable on trying to justify ourselves by our works (Ch. 7), analogies for "the hint that God exists" (ch. 5), the analogy of the seed (ch. 14), an analogy that hope needs difficulties and tribulations (ch. 22), the Trinity (ch. 29), God's love for us is erotic (ch. 34), and how we might hope that even Nietzsche can be saved (ch. 37). Many analogies, though not all, are drawn from ordinary family life: a mother's love for a child, a child's temper tantrum before collapsing in tears on a parent. These are powerful and effective. Unfortunately, I can't rate it 5 stars, because the text seems to consider its audience to be the average educated lay Catholic, but there are two serious weaknesses both for the theological newbie and even for the theological adolescent. One is the use of many unfamiliar terms, some of them merely transliterated from Greek, and no definition given anywhere -- often, not even a hint of what the word may mean. In some cases this can make it difficult to follow the discussion. For instance, the text dedicates two entire chapters to the question of justification, which makes sense given that it's an important topic in the realm of faith, and it's important to take it seriously. But the book never once provides a definition, which suggests the reader should be familiar with the term already. I guarantee you most people don't know what the word means. But even if you think that a definition of "justification" will indeed come tripping off the average reader's tongue, I challenge you to make a case for terms like ontological, parousia, and parenesis. I've been reading Catholic theology for 30 years and parenesis is a new one even to me. Sure, the reader might could look them up, and I'm glad to expand my vocabulary, but who's the audience here? If the text is meant only for seminarians, then never mind, but given how Word on Fire is marketing this I really don't think that is the case. The second major weakness is all the more disappointing, as it is so common to contemporary works of theology: when newer developments seem to contradict past dogma or even Scripture itself, pretend the dogma and Scripture doesn't exist. This happens at least twice: 1) Surely Fr. Cantalamessa is not unaware that Scripture both Old and New is replete with references to Christ "ransoming" us from God's wrath. Yet there he is in Chapter 31, not merely acting as if it doesn't exist, but contemptuously dismissive of the notion! Grant the Scholastics this much: at least they took Matthew 20.28, Romans 1.18, Romans 2.5-8, 1 Timothy 2.6, 1 Peter 1.18-19, and Revelation 19.15 seriously enough to wrestle with them. 2) Similarly, the Council of Florence made certain pronouncements on "those existing outside the Catholic Church" and "the souls of those who depart this life in actual mortal sin, or in original sin alone." Chapter 14 acts as if they do not exist. I do not for a moment mean to advocate for the "glass half-empty" interpretation of these pronouncements that predominated theological discourse for centuries, let alone for Feeneyism, but we ignore them at our peril, if only because ignoring them leaves a great big breach in the apologetic wall that will come under assault both from those who do reject the Second Vatican Council and from hostile Protestants more knowledgeable of Catholic theological history than the average Catholic and, one half-wonders, the average Catholic theologian. Those drawbacks, while severe enough in my eyes to warrant mention and deduct a star, do not for a moment take away from the beauty and profundity of the rest of this work. I am very glad to have had the chance to read it; it has challenged me both intellectually and spiritually, and I have given it to my (late teenage) children to read and discuss with me. It is absolutely worth reading, and you WILL get a lot out of it. Just be ready for the challenge.
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Reviewed in the United States on July 25, 2025
S
Verified Purchase
shelly turco
Charlottesville, US
★★★★★ 5
OPEN YOUR EYES
Format: Paperback
Great book! Open your eyes sheep..... there is much more to this world that we know of. Authority figures have lied to us long enough..... do your own research. This book is a great example of what we were not taught in school! Well written.
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Reviewed in the United States on February 14, 2021
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Sailorman
Lexington, US
★★★★★ 4
Great speculation from the "Alternative Camp"
Format: Paperback
According to John Anthony West it was not until the second half of the twentieth century that "guerilla scholarship" became a noticeable, if uncoordinated force in modern science. Guerilla scholarship of course, refers to the alternative camp or those that challenge orthodox views in science, archeology, anthropology, etc. If this book doesn't fall into the guerilla scholarship or alternative camp category it comes really close. Author Dr. Robert Schoch is of course the archeologist who some years ago, along with John Anthony West, shocked the scientific community and infuriated Dr. Zahi Hawass, Egypt's Director of Antiquity, by claiming that the Sphinx's construction predated Khufu, its alleged builder, by 3,000 years or more. While the controversy surrounding those claims has resulted in numerous books, both, pro and con, with no real accepted conclusions, in this book Schoch tries to develop the hypothesis that all of the pyramids constructed around the world have a common origin in Sundaland, which was inundated under 250 feet of water after the last ice age. If somebody could come across a pyramid or two (2), that predated the great pyramid, under that 250 feet of water it would certainly help Schoch's case, but be that as it may, Schoch, while not proving his hypothesis, does present a pretty convincing argument in support of his speculation. Schoch begins with a discussion in review of the theories for the age of Giza and other pyramid type structures around the world. He then provides very convincing evidence for his claim that humans traversed both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans eons before Columbus's 1492 voyage, which is the orthodox view of the first contact with the new world. He discusses how early humans might have accomplished this as well as their possible motives for doing so. Schoch concludes with where they came from, arriving at the common roots in Sundaland 10,000 years ago. This book probably has some of the longest, impossible to pronounce names, of people and places of any book that I have ever read; and a few maps of various parts of the world, particularly Europe, the Middle and Far East, and South America, would have helped a great deal in developing a mental picture of what was being related. All that aside, the book challenges the mind and causes one to think. I was particularly intrigued by Schoch's explanation as to how Moses was able to convince the pharaoh to allow him and his followers to leave Egypt, as well as Schoch's perfectly plausible explanation of what parted the waters of the Red Sea and subsequently drowned the pharaoh's army when the waters rushed back in. While maybe not as convincing as Schoch's earlier work, "Voices of the Rocks", Schoch presents convincing arguments and if you are a "guerilla scholar" you're going to love this book.
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Reviewed in the United States on February 24, 2008
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K. Ryan Kane
Chelsea, US
★★★★★ 5
This is a great book to begin your study on all the groups ...
Format: Paperback
This book isn't just about pyramids. It talks a lot about all the different groups and waves of people who traveled to the American continent, mostly the Latin American areas. There is so much information contained therein that I intend to read this book again. This is a great book to begin your study on all the groups who traveled to Latin America.
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Reviewed in the United States on May 14, 2018

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