Types of Boston Fern Varieties: The Complete Guide

Boston ferns are a classic choice for houseplant lovers, known for their vibrant green foliage and graceful arching stems. They bring a touch of nature into your home and are relatively easy to care for once you get the hang of it.

Today, we're going to explore different Boston fern varieties, each with its unique look and charm. You'll learn what makes each variety special and how to care for them, making your home a lush and inviting space.

Boston Fern Basics

Before we jump into the varieties, let’s chat about what makes Boston ferns such a beloved houseplant. Their scientific name is Nephrolepis exaltata, and they thrive in humid environments with indirect light. These ferns are perfect for adding greenery to any room, from bathrooms to living spaces.

Boston ferns are known for their arching fronds that can grow quite long, and their ability to purify the air. They prefer consistently moist soil and high humidity, so misting them regularly can help keep them happy. Also, they’re non-toxic to pets, which is always a bonus for plant-loving pet owners.

Traditional Boston Fern

The traditional Boston fern is the classic variety most people recognize. It features long, lush fronds with a soft, feathery texture and a rich green color. This variety is often seen in hanging baskets or as a centerpiece on a plant stand.

To care for a traditional Boston fern, place it in a location with bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while too little light can cause them to wilt. Keep the soil consistently moist, but be careful not to let the plant sit in water, as this can lead to root rot.

These ferns love humidity, so consider placing a humidifier nearby or misting the leaves regularly. You can also place the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water to help maintain a humid environment.

Fluffy Ruffles Fern

The Fluffy Ruffles fern is a delightful variety with a name that perfectly describes its appearance. Unlike the traditional Boston fern, the Fluffy Ruffles has fronds with a more compact and ruffled look, creating a dense and bushy plant.

This variety is excellent for those who want a full, lush plant without the length of the traditional fronds. It’s perfect for tabletops or shelves where space might be limited.

Caring for a Fluffy Ruffles fern is similar to other Boston ferns. They love humidity and indirect light. Water them enough to keep the soil moist, and don’t forget to mist the leaves regularly. If you notice the tips turning brown, it might be a sign that the air is too dry.

Dallas Fern

Dallas ferns are a hardy variety known for their ability to tolerate low light conditions better than other Boston ferns. This makes them an excellent choice for those who don’t have access to bright, indirect sunlight.

Dallas ferns have a slightly more compact growth habit, making them suitable for smaller spaces. Their fronds are shorter and denser, giving them a full, robust appearance. They’re a great choice for offices or rooms with limited natural light.

While Dallas ferns are more forgiving with light, they still prefer consistent moisture and high humidity. Keep the soil slightly moist, and mist the plant regularly to ensure it stays healthy and vibrant.

Golden Boston Fern

The Golden Boston fern is a stunning variety with a unique twist: its fronds have a golden-yellow hue. This variety can brighten up any space and add a touch of color to your plant collection.

Golden Boston ferns require similar care to other Boston ferns, but they may need a bit more light to maintain their vibrant color. Place them in bright, indirect sunlight and keep the soil moist. Regular misting will help maintain the humidity they love.

If you notice the fronds losing their golden hue, it might be a sign of too little light. Try moving the plant to a brighter spot, but be careful of direct sunlight, which can cause scorching.

Kimberly Queen Fern

Although not a true Boston fern, the Kimberly Queen is often grouped with them due to its similar appearance and care requirements. The main difference is its upright, sword-like fronds, which give it a more structured look.

Kimberly Queen ferns are perfect for plant lovers who want a fern that’s a bit different in shape. They’re also more tolerant of sun and can handle a bit more direct light than traditional Boston ferns.

Caring for a Kimberly Queen fern involves maintaining consistent moisture and humidity. They do well in bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sun, especially in the morning or late afternoon. Regular misting and keeping the soil moist will keep them happy and healthy.

Compacta Boston Fern

The Compacta Boston fern is a smaller variety, ideal for those who love the look of Boston ferns but don’t have the space for their sprawling fronds. This variety has shorter, denser fronds, creating a neat and tidy appearance.

Compacta ferns are perfect for desks, shelves, or small corners where a touch of greenery is needed. They’re also great for those who want to add plants to their home without taking up too much space.

Like other Boston ferns, Compacta ferns love humidity and indirect light. Keep the soil consistently moist, and mist the leaves regularly to maintain the humidity they thrive in. If you notice the fronds looking sparse, it might be a sign they need more light.

Machismo Fern

The Machismo fern is a bold and striking variety, known for its larger size and robust fronds. This variety is perfect for plant lovers who want a statement piece in their home.

With its large, arching fronds, the Machismo fern can fill a space beautifully, making it a great choice for larger rooms or as a focal point in a plant display. It’s also a conversation starter with its impressive size and vibrant green color.

Caring for a Machismo fern involves providing it with plenty of indirect light and consistent moisture. They love humidity, so misting the leaves regularly or placing a humidifier nearby can help keep them thriving. Ensure the soil stays moist, but avoid waterlogging to prevent root issues.

Conclusion

Boston ferns, with their lush greenery and variety, offer endless possibilities for plant lovers looking to add some life to their homes. From the classic traditional variety to the bold Machismo fern, each type has something unique to offer.

At Cafe Planta, we’re here to help you find the perfect plant for your space. Whether you’re looking for advice on plant care or need a new addition to your collection, we’ve got you covered. Feel free to reach out to us via email or connect with us on Instagram. Let's create a beautiful, thriving plant collection together!