Nephrolepis exaltata
Nephrolepis exaltata (Boston Fern) Care Guide
Featured photonephrolepis-exaltata.jpgNephrolepis exaltata is the Boston fern, a tropical American sword fern that became the classic Victorian parlour plant and remains one of the most-grown indoor ferns. Its arching, finely divided fronds make a soft contrast to glossier foliage plants. It needs higher humidity than most houseplants and is happiest in bathrooms or near a humidifier.
Care facts at a glance
- Light
- Bright indirect
- Water
- Keep the mix consistently lightly moist; water as soon as the top dries.
- Humidity
- 50–70 %
- Temperature
- 15–24 °C
- Soil
- Peat-rich, well-draining mix with perlite; slightly acidic.
- Toxicity
- Non-toxic. (humans) · Non-toxic to cats and dogs per ASPCA Boston fern listing. (pets)
- Origin
- Tropical Americas, Africa, and Polynesia.
- Mature size
- 60 to 90 cm tall, similar spread.
Overview
Nephrolepis exaltata became the iconic Victorian parlour plant in the 1880s when a sport called the Bostoniensis cultivar was discovered in a shipment to Boston. Modern Boston ferns are typically Bostoniensis or one of its descendants.
Care Priorities
- Higher humidity than most houseplants — bathrooms and grouped plants help.
- Bright filtered light; deep shade thins the fronds.
- Keep mix consistently moist; never let it dry out.
- Trim brown fronds at the base; new ones emerge from the rhizome.
Common Problems
Brown crispy fronds are dry air or hard water. Yellow fronds are overwatering. Massive frond drop after a winter heating spell is a humidity crisis — move to a more humid spot.
Sources & further reading (3)
- encyclopedia — accessed 2026-04-28
- botanical-garden — accessed 2026-04-28
- toxicity-database — accessed 2026-04-28
Frequently asked questions
Why does my Boston fern keep dropping leaves?
Almost always low humidity or inconsistent watering. Move to a humid bathroom and water on a steady rhythm.
Can I keep it in a regular living room?
Yes, but expect more frond loss than in a humid space. A pebble tray or small humidifier helps a lot.
How often to repot?
Every 18 to 24 months, or when the rhizome fills the pot. Boston ferns dislike being root-bound.
