Boston fern - Nephrolepis exaltata (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images)

Boston fern

Also known as: Fishbone fern

The Nephrolepis exaltata is commonly known as the boston fern or sword fern. It is a common and popular houseplant that is native to tropical environments. While the boston fern can survive droughts, it prefers humid environments and should be misted regularly. It is generally considered non-toxic and is pet friendly.

Scientific classification

Species

Boston fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Fern

Plant Type

40 cm to 250 cm

Plant Height

60 cm to 90 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

Brown, Black

Fruit Color

Green, Brown

Stem Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Rapid

Growth Rate

Distribution of Boston fern

Distribution Map

Boston fern is native to the tropical and subtropical Americas. Its native habitat includes swamps, humid forests, and floodplains. It has been introduced in northern Africa, Tanzania, Australia, and Bangladesh. Boston fern is commonly cultivated for use as a houseplant.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Forests, Swamps

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Boston fern is a common houseplant with indoor use year-round and outdoor use during summer. It is prized for its large size and beautiful foliage, making it a perfect accent plant for shaded porches or hanging baskets. Ensure your plant is given sufficient moisture and humidity for the healthiest look. Protect from frost and move indoors when there is a chance of cold temperatures.

Symbolism

Sincerity, there are fairies living nearby

Interesting Facts

The boston fern is a popular houseplant reputed to purify indoor air. The well-known NASA Clean Air Study from 1989 concluded that the plant can rid air of formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene. However, there's a caveat: A single plant or just a few plants can remove only small amounts of these gasses, so many plants would be needed for a significant effect.

Name Story

Boston swordfern: When you observed the leaves carefully, you will notice that the leaves are gradually getting narrow from the aerial root to the top, like a sword. So, it is called swordfern. As for Boston, it was shipped from Philadelphia in 1984 to Boston and that was when the plant started to transform. The straightened leaves become elegant, and because of the transportation, it is called Boston swordfern.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Boston fern, including the following common varieties :

Boston fern Boston fern 'Tiger'Petticoat fern Boston fern 'Green Lady'Sword fern 'Fluffy Ruffles Upright'

Quickly Identify Boston fern

Pinnately compound fronds up to 3 feet (90 cm) long with asymmetrical pinnae and basal auricle.

Distinct sori present as round dots neatly arranged underneath the pinnae, aiding fern identification.

Erect to arching or pendent fronds with linear-oblong pinnules, finely serrate margins, and crowded growth along stolons.

Short, suberect rhizomes and slender stolons, with fibrous texture and crucial for plant propagation.

Smooth stems with light brown to greenish hue, slightly raised rhizomes, and horizontally extending stolons.

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Care Guide for Boston fern

Twice per week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from humid environments, boston fern thrives in consistently moist, well-drained soil without waterlogging. Regular watering twice a week is essential. Misting helps recreate its tropical conditions, ensuring vibrant and healthy fronds, making it a popular choice for indoor plant enthusiasts.

Fertilize: Fertilize boston fern biweekly with diluted high nitrogen fertilizer during the growing season (spring to early autumn). In winter, reduce to monthly applications, avoiding over-fertilization to prevent root burn. Use liquid or granular types, ensuring even distribution. Monitor boston fern's growth to adjust feeding accordingly.

Pruning: Boston fern features lush, arching fronds. Prune in early spring to remove dead or damaged fronds and manage shape. Use sterilized tools for clean cuts. Proper pruning enhances airflow, reduces pests, and promotes the plant's health while maintaining a balanced appearance.

Propagation: Boston fern features lush, arching fronds and thrives indoors with minimal care. Propagation is done via division using sterilized tools. Ensure each division has multiple fronds and a robust root system, planting them in well-draining soil while maintaining consistent moisture without waterlogging.

Repotting: Repot boston fern every 2-3 years, ideally in spring, using a slightly larger pot. Utilize well-draining soil, ensure consistent moisture without waterlogging, and provide indirect light with high humidity for optimal recovery and growth.

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