Nephrolepis exaltata ‘Bostoniensis’
Overview
Uses: Houseplant, hanging baskets, shaded patios, covered porches, and tropical-style container displays.
Benefits: Gracefully arching fronds create a full, textured look that softens interiors and shaded outdoor spaces.
USDA Hardiness Zones: 9–11 (grown as an annual in colder climates)
Sun: Partial Sun/Shade to Heavy Shade
Life Cycle: Tender Perennial
Growth Habit: Clumping, Arching — upright crown with cascading fronds.
Foliage Color: Green
Mature Height: Up to 3'
Mature Width: Up to 3'
Bloom Season: Not grown for flowers
Growth Rate: Moderate
Summary
Boston Fern brings a lush, layered texture to interiors and shaded spaces with its full canopy of arching green fronds.
This classic houseplant develops from a central crown, sending out long, finely divided fronds that create a soft, cascading silhouette. It works beautifully in hanging baskets, pedestal planters, or grouped with other foliage plants for a tropical effect. While primarily grown indoors in cooler climates, it can also be used outdoors in shaded settings during warm months.
Care
Boston Fern Care
Place in bright, indirect light or light shade. Avoid prolonged direct sun, which can scorch the fronds.
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top layer of soil to dry slightly between waterings while maintaining even moisture overall.
Boston Fern prefers higher humidity. In dry indoor environments, increasing ambient humidity can help maintain healthy foliage.
During active growth (spring through early fall), apply a balanced slow release fertilizer to support steady growth.
Trim away yellowing or damaged fronds as needed to maintain a full, tidy appearance.
Container Growing: Boston Fern is typically grown in containers. Ensure adequate drainage and avoid allowing pots to sit in standing water. Plants hardy in the ground may require winter protection when grown in containers in colder zones.
Size
What Size is the Boston Fern for Sale Online?
Plants are shipped in a greenhouse-grade grower’s container or hanging basket and are well-rooted and healthy at the time of shipment. Growth stage will vary seasonally. If you need specific sizing details before ordering, please contact us.
How Large Does Boston Fern Grow?
Mature plants may reach up to 3 feet tall and wide, forming a full, arching clump when grown in favorable conditions.
Additional Information
What are some common names for this plant?
This plant is commonly known as Boston Fern or Sword Fern.
Can Boston Fern be grown outdoors?
Yes, in USDA Zones 9–11 it may be grown outdoors in shaded locations. In cooler climates, it is typically grown as a seasonal container plant.
Is Boston Fern suitable for hanging baskets?
Yes. Its naturally arching fronds make it especially well suited for hanging displays and elevated planters.
What other plants pair well with Boston Fern?
It combines well with selections from our Houseplants collection or shaded companions from our Tropical Plants collection.
