Boston Fern
Nephrolepis exaltata
The quintessential Victorian parlour fern — arching fronds of small lance-shaped leaflets cascading from a central crown. Purifies indoor air and is completely non-toxic to cats, dogs, and children. Produces thin wiry runners that sprout tiny plantlets — an easy free source of new plants. Thrives in bathrooms or on pebble trays.
Quick Facts
Distribution
Indoor (native to the Americas & tropics)
Light
Bright indirect light
Bloom Time
Ferns do not flower
Soil
Rich, loamy, moisture-retentive potting mix
Water
Consistently moist — never let it dry out completely; mist fronds or use humidity tray
Growing & Cultivation
Propagation
Division is easiest — separate the rootball in spring. Also from runners: pin a plantlet to moist soil until roots form, then cut from parent. Spores are slow but possible.
