Hardy and Easy to Grow Ferns for Beginners: Nephrolepis

Of all ferns, Nephrolepis are perhaps the most popular and easy to grow ferns. Nephrolepis is native of tropical and sub-tropical regions and can be grown under various indoor and outdoor climatic conditions. Most Nephrolepis would withstand frost and drought. These are excellent ferns for to be grown as ground cover or as hanging baskets.

Nephrolepis Exaltala (Boston Fern), Image © Tech Mentor on Flickr

Popular Varieties of Nephrolepis Fern

Nephrolepis Exaltala: Commonly known as Boston fern or Sword fern, Nephrolepis Exaltala produces dense and attractive crowns of long and drooping leaves. Boston fern prefers humid conditions and bright yet filtered sunlight. It also makes an excellent choice for indoor landscapes or hanging baskets. Propagation is easy from divisions of the crown.

Nephrolepis Cordifolia: This is another drought-tolerant and a vigorously growing fern. Nephrolepis Cordifolia grows under partial sunlight, well-drained soil and moderate fertilization. It is also propagated from divisions. Common name of Nephrolepis Cordifolia is Fishbone fern.