Fern
Family (Latin):
Ophioglossaceae & Marattiaceae
One of the oldest, timeless classics with a large family
A brief introduction
Ferns, among the oldest plants on Earth, are renowned for their graceful, feathery fronds that add a touch of timeless beauty to both indoor and outdoor spaces. These non-flowering plants, belonging to the group Pteridophytes, have been around for over 300 million years, thriving in diverse environments from tropical rainforests to temperate woodlands. With over 10,000 species, ferns are prized for their ability to thrive in low-light conditions, making them ideal for shaded gardens or indoor spaces where they bring a lush, natural ambiance.
Popular varieties
Nephrolepis exaltata ~ One of the most popular indoor ferns, known for its lush, arching fronds and ease of care.
Asplenium nidus (Bird's Nest Fern) ~ Features broad, wavy-edged fronds that grow in a rosette pattern, resembling a bird's nest.
Polystichum munitum ) ~ A hardy outdoor fern with dark green, sword-shaped fronds, ideal for shady garden beds.
Plant care
Ferns thrive in indirect light and prefer a shaded or partially shaded location when grown outdoors. Indoors, they do best in bright, indirect light, away from harsh, direct sunlight that can scorch their delicate fronds. Ferns favor a consistently moist, well-draining soil that mimics their natural forest floor environment. Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, but avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Humidity is crucial for ferns, especially when grown indoors. To maintain the high humidity they love, mist the fronds regularly, or place the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water. During the growing season (spring and summer), feed your fern with a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks. Prune away any brown or damaged fronds to keep your fern looking fresh and healthy.
air purifying properties: Yes
Toxic to pets: Yes
Fragrant: No
Care difficulty: Easy
Did you know?
Ferns have a unique reproductive system, relying on spores instead of seeds to reproduce. These spores are often found on the underside of the fronds and can be collected to propagate new plants. Ferns have also been associated with various cultural symbols; in Victorian times, they were a symbol of humility and sincerity. Due to their air-purifying qualities and low-maintenance nature, ferns continue to be a popular choice for adding a touch of natural elegance to homes and gardens.