Nephrolepidaceae
Nephrolepis exaltata
Create an instant indoor jungle with the Boston Fern—full, cascading fronds that soften any space and look stunning in hanging baskets. A timeless, pet-safe choice for homes and offices, it rewards consistent moisture and humidity with fresh, vibrant growth all year.
1. Basic Identification
Plant Science Name: Nephrolepis exaltata
Plant Varient: Standard
Plant Color: Green
Plant Country: Not mentioned
SKU: PLT-0088
Arabic Name: فوجيرا
Stems: Not available
Family: Nephrolepidaceae
2. Taxonomy & Classification
Order: Polypodiales
Family: Nephrolepidaceae
Genus: Nephrolepis
Species: Nephrolepis exaltata
3. Origin & Distribution
Native to tropical regions of northern South America, Florida, Africa, and Polynesia. Widely cultivated and naturalized in warm, humid climates around the world as an ornamental houseplant and groundcover.
4. Visual Characteristics
The Boston Fern features arching fronds composed of numerous small, lanceolate pinnules. Fronds emerge a bright, fresh green and may reach lengths of 30–90 cm. Texture is feathery and lush, creating a full, cascading appearance ideal for hanging baskets.
5. Size & Dimensions
Height: 30–60 cm (12–24 in) when mature
Spread: 45–90 cm (18–36 in)
Frond Length: 30–90 cm (12–36 in)
6. Light Requirements
Thrives in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch fronds. Tolerates low light but growth may slow and fronds may become sparse.
7. Watering Needs
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top 1–2 cm of soil begins to dry. Enjoys high humidity; mist regularly or use a humidity tray to prevent frond tip browning.
8. Soil & Potting
Use a well-draining, peat-based potting mix rich in organic matter. A blend of peat moss, perlite, and pine bark works well. Repot every 1–2 years to refresh soil and divide overcrowded clumps.
9. Temperature & Humidity
Optimal temperature range 16–24°C (60–75°F). Avoid temperatures below 10°C (50°F). Requires high humidity (50% or higher); thrives in bathrooms or kitchens, or where a humidifier is used.
10. Fertilization
Feed monthly during spring and summer with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Reduce feeding in fall and winter when growth slows.
11. Maintenance & Care Level
Moderate maintenance. Requires regular watering, humidity monitoring, and periodic pruning of dead or yellow fronds. Sensitive to chlorine and fluoride in tap water—use filtered or rainwater when possible.
12. Growth & Propagation
Grows from a creeping rhizome, forming dense clumps. Propagate by dividing rhizomes during repotting. Ensure each division has several healthy fronds and active rhizome growth points.
13. Common Problems
Brown frond tips often due to low humidity or underwatering. Yellowing fronds can indicate overwatering or poor drainage. Susceptible to root rot if waterlogged. Pests include aphids, scale, mealybugs, and spider mites.
14. Benefits & Uses
An effective air purifier, removing formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene. Adds lush, tropical ambiance to indoor spaces. Pet-safe choice for households with dogs and cats. Ideal for hanging baskets, stands, and terrariums.
15. Toxicity & Safety
Non-toxic to humans and pets (dogs and cats), making it a safe houseplant for families. Always monitor for soil runoff to prevent slips or spills.
Nephrolepis exaltata
Create an instant indoor jungle with the Boston Fern—full, cascading fronds that soften any space and look stunning in hanging baskets. A timeless, pet-safe choice for homes and offices, it rewards consistent moisture and humidity with fresh, vibrant growth all year.
1. Basic Identification
Plant Science Name: Nephrolepis exaltata
Plant Varient: Standard
Plant Color: Green
Plant Country: Not mentioned
SKU: PLT-0088
Arabic Name: فوجيرا
Stems: Not available
Family: Nephrolepidaceae
2. Taxonomy & Classification
Order: Polypodiales
Family: Nephrolepidaceae
Genus: Nephrolepis
Species: Nephrolepis exaltata
3. Origin & Distribution
Native to tropical regions of northern South America, Florida, Africa, and Polynesia. Widely cultivated and naturalized in warm, humid climates around the world as an ornamental houseplant and groundcover.
4. Visual Characteristics
The Boston Fern features arching fronds composed of numerous small, lanceolate pinnules. Fronds emerge a bright, fresh green and may reach lengths of 30–90 cm. Texture is feathery and lush, creating a full, cascading appearance ideal for hanging baskets.
5. Size & Dimensions
Height: 30–60 cm (12–24 in) when mature
Spread: 45–90 cm (18–36 in)
Frond Length: 30–90 cm (12–36 in)
6. Light Requirements
Thrives in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch fronds. Tolerates low light but growth may slow and fronds may become sparse.
7. Watering Needs
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top 1–2 cm of soil begins to dry. Enjoys high humidity; mist regularly or use a humidity tray to prevent frond tip browning.
8. Soil & Potting
Use a well-draining, peat-based potting mix rich in organic matter. A blend of peat moss, perlite, and pine bark works well. Repot every 1–2 years to refresh soil and divide overcrowded clumps.
9. Temperature & Humidity
Optimal temperature range 16–24°C (60–75°F). Avoid temperatures below 10°C (50°F). Requires high humidity (50% or higher); thrives in bathrooms or kitchens, or where a humidifier is used.
10. Fertilization
Feed monthly during spring and summer with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Reduce feeding in fall and winter when growth slows.
11. Maintenance & Care Level
Moderate maintenance. Requires regular watering, humidity monitoring, and periodic pruning of dead or yellow fronds. Sensitive to chlorine and fluoride in tap water—use filtered or rainwater when possible.
12. Growth & Propagation
Grows from a creeping rhizome, forming dense clumps. Propagate by dividing rhizomes during repotting. Ensure each division has several healthy fronds and active rhizome growth points.
13. Common Problems
Brown frond tips often due to low humidity or underwatering. Yellowing fronds can indicate overwatering or poor drainage. Susceptible to root rot if waterlogged. Pests include aphids, scale, mealybugs, and spider mites.
14. Benefits & Uses
An effective air purifier, removing formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene. Adds lush, tropical ambiance to indoor spaces. Pet-safe choice for households with dogs and cats. Ideal for hanging baskets, stands, and terrariums.
15. Toxicity & Safety
Non-toxic to humans and pets (dogs and cats), making it a safe houseplant for families. Always monitor for soil runoff to prevent slips or spills.