Fern
Boston Fern
Nephrolepis exaltata
Traits
Varieties We Carry
StandardNephrolepis exaltataAssortedNephrolepis exaltataFlorida RuffleNephrolepis exaltata
Sizes & Pricing
8 inFrom$29.95
1 galFrom$6.95
2 galFrom$16.95
From$29.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked May 20.
LightPart Sun, Part Shade
WaterModerate
Mature size1-3 feet × 2-4 feet
About Boston Fern
Nephrolepis exaltata, Boston fern, is a tropical fern native to humid forests of the Americas with long, gracefully arching fronds lined with bright green pinnae. One of the most popular ferns in cultivation, it is widely grown in hanging baskets and as a porch or indoor plant for its lush, full appearance. Starting at $6.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Non-flowering
- Flower Color
- Non-flowering
- Growth Rate
- Fast
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- Clay, Sandy, Loam, Acidic, Well-drained
Best planting months
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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Seasonal care
Good planting window.
Active growing season.
Ideal planting window.
May lose some foliage in cold snaps.
Care essentials
Light
Grow Boston fern in bright indirect light or partial to full shade; avoid harsh direct sun, which scorches fronds. Outdoor plants in NE Florida thrive under tree canopy or on a shaded porch.
Water
Keep soil consistently moist but never waterlogged; water when the top inch of soil feels dry. In NE Florida's hot, humid summers, container plants may need daily watering; established landscape plants tolerate brief dry spells.
Soil & Fertilizer
Plant in rich, organic, well-drained soil amended with peat or compost. Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer lightly in spring and summer; avoid heavy feeding, which can burn roots.
Similar needs
Autumn Fern
Shares 4 of the same needs: shade, moderate water, clay, and zone 9a hardiness.
From $6.95Same conditions
Bald Cypress
Shares 4 of the same needs: similar light, moderate water, clay, and zone 9a hardiness.
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Bamboo
Shares 4 of the same needs: similar light, moderate water, clay, and zone 9a hardiness.
From $195.00Same conditions
Basswood
Shares 4 of the same needs: similar light, moderate water, clay, and zone 9a hardiness.
From $44.95Same conditions
Bluestar
Shares 4 of the same needs: similar light, moderate water, clay, and zone 9a hardiness.
From $9.95Same conditions
Boxwood
Shares 4 of the same needs: shade, moderate water, clay, and zone 9a hardiness.
From $14.95Same conditions
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Common questions
Is Boston Fern a good plant for St. Augustine?
Boston Fern is a fern for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 1-3 feet × 2-4 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed March 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.