Boston Fern — Growing reference
| Scientific name | Nephrolepis exaltata 'Bostoniensis' |
|---|---|
| First harvest or flowering (days) | 60–120 |
| Measured from | Transplant |
| Plant spacing (cm) | 61–91.4 |
| Mature height (cm) | 45.7–91.4 |
| Mature spread (cm) | 61–121.9 |
| USDA hardiness zones | 9–12 |
| Light | Shade |
| Water | High |
| Sowing method | Division |
Growing directions
Plant in moist, humus-rich, slightly acidic soil in partial to full shade; Boston fern is the world's most widely grown ornamental fern and perhaps the most popular hanging basket plant in temperate and tropical horticulture, with long, graceful, arching fronds of soft, bright green pinnae that cascade elegantly over pot edges, porch railings, and tree branches. In zone 9–12 it thrives outdoors year-round in sheltered, shaded positions on porches, under pergolas, and beneath the canopy of large trees, where the naturally high humidity and warm temperatures suit it perfectly. The key cultural requirement is consistent moisture and humidity — fronds desiccate and shed leaflets rapidly in dry, hot, or low-humidity conditions. In outdoor zone 9 culture, light frost nips the fronds but established plants typically regrow from the crown. Divide congested clumps and remove dead fronds from the crown in spring. The related 'Kimberly Queen' fern (N. obliterata) is generally more heat and drought tolerant and better suited to humid Southern gardens.
Source and local conditions
Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.
Source & verification
OpenPlantDB · CC0