Boston Fern
Nephrolepis exaltata 'Lady'
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Fern
Height
24 inches
Width
36 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Water
Consistent moisture
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Tropical Americas
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
A popular fern known for its arching fronds and delicate appearance. Exceptionally easy to grow indoors; known for its air-purifying qualities.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck spores or divide established plants in early spring.
- Plant in well-draining, rich soil with consistent moisture.
- Mist regularly to maintain humidity and encourage growth.
- Place in partial to full shade for optimal health.
- Transplant when roots outgrow current container, typically every 2-3 years.
- Mulch around base to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Maintain high humidity and avoid direct sunlight to keep fronds lush and healthy.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Keep soil consistently moist 🌱
- Provide indirect light for best growth
- Mist frequently to boost humidity
- Use organic fertilizer monthly during growing season
- Remove dead fronds to promote new growth
Don't
- Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch fronds ❌
- Don’t let soil dry out completely
- Refrain from over-fertilizing, which can cause root burn
- Do not neglect pruning to prevent disease
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Boston Fern questions
What zones can Boston Fern grow in?
Boston Fern is hardy in USDA Zone 10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Boston Fern deer resistant?
Yes — Boston Fern is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
Does Boston Fern need full sun?
Boston Fern does best in part shade.
More Nephrolepis to compare
Brilliance Autumn Fern
Nephrolepis exaltata 'Brilliance Autumn'
Godzilla Fern
Nephrolepis exaltata 'Godzilla'
Boston Fern
Nephrolepis exaltata
Lady in Red Fern
Nephrolepis exaltata 'Lady in Red'
Kimberly Queen Fern
Nephrolepis obliterata 'Kimberly Queen'
Golden Boston Fern
Nephrolepis exaltata 'Jurassic Gold'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Boston Fern with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
