Types of Fern Varieties: The Complete Guide

If you enjoy houseplants, you've probably come across ferns at some point. These leafy wonders have been around for millions of years, and they’re still a favorite among plant lovers today. With their captivating green foliage and graceful appearance, ferns can transform any space into a cozy, inviting sanctuary.

In this guide, we'll take a closer look at some popular fern varieties and provide you with tips on how to care for them. Whether you're a seasoned plant parent or just starting out, there's something here for everyone. So grab a cup of tea, get comfortable, and let's explore the world of ferns together!

Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)

The Boston Fern is a classic houseplant known for its lush, arching fronds. It's a favorite for hanging baskets and looks stunning on a plant stand. Boston Ferns thrive in humid environments, making them a top choice for bathrooms or kitchens where moisture is more prevalent.

Here are some tips for keeping your Boston Fern happy:

• Light: These ferns prefer indirect, filtered light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch their delicate leaves.
• Water: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
• Humidity: Boston Ferns love humidity. Consider misting them regularly or placing a humidifier nearby.
• Temperature: They prefer cooler temperatures, ideally between 60°F and 75°F.

Fun fact: Boston Ferns are excellent air purifiers, so they're not only pretty but also functional additions to your home.

Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum)

Maidenhair Ferns are renowned for their delicate and lacy foliage. Their fine, feathery appearance makes them a popular choice for adding a touch of elegance to any room. However, they can be a bit finicky when it comes to care, so patience is key.

To ensure your Maidenhair Fern thrives, follow these guidelines:

• Light: They do best in bright, indirect light. Too much direct sunlight can cause their leaves to dry out.
• Water: Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering. They dislike soggy conditions.
• Humidity: High humidity is a must. Consider placing your Maidenhair Fern in a bathroom or using a pebble tray filled with water to maintain higher humidity levels.
• Temperature: They prefer temperatures between 60°F and 75°F.

Interestingly, Maidenhair Ferns are often used in floral arrangements due to their beauty and delicate texture.

Kangaroo Paw Fern (Microsorum diversifolium)

The Kangaroo Paw Fern is a unique variety known for its leathery leaves that resemble a kangaroo's paw. It's a hardy fern, which makes it an excellent choice for plant parents who may not have the greenest thumbs yet.

Here’s how to care for your Kangaroo Paw Fern:

• Light: These ferns can tolerate low light conditions but prefer bright, indirect light.
• Water: Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
• Humidity: They do well in average household humidity but will thrive if given a little extra moisture.
• Temperature: Maintain temperatures between 60°F and 75°F.

Kangaroo Paw Ferns are less demanding than other ferns, making them perfect for beginners or those with busy lifestyles.

Staghorn Fern (Platycerium)

Staghorn Ferns are a true statement piece with their antler-like fronds. Unlike most ferns, they can be mounted on wood or hung like a piece of living art. They’re epiphytic, meaning they naturally grow on other plants or surfaces.

Here’s how to care for your Staghorn Fern:

• Light: Bright, indirect light is ideal. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch their leaves.
• Water: Water your Staghorn Fern about once a week, allowing it to dry out slightly between waterings.
• Humidity: These ferns enjoy humidity, so misting them regularly is beneficial.
• Temperature: Keep them in an environment with temperatures between 60°F and 80°F.

Staghorn Ferns are often displayed in unique ways, such as mounted on wooden plaques or hung in decorative baskets, adding a bit of flair to any room.

Bird's Nest Fern (Asplenium nidus)

The Bird's Nest Fern is known for its broad, wavy fronds that emerge from a central rosette, resembling a bird's nest. This fern is a great choice for plant people looking for something a bit different but still easy to care for.

Here’s how to care for your Bird's Nest Fern:

• Light: It prefers medium to low indirect light. Direct sunlight can cause the leaves to yellow.
• Water: Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering. Water the soil directly, not the center of the rosette.
• Humidity: While it can tolerate average humidity, higher humidity levels will help it thrive.
• Temperature: It prefers temperatures between 60°F and 80°F.

The Bird's Nest Fern's unique appearance makes it a standout piece that can add character to any space.

Button Fern (Pellaea rotundifolia)

The Button Fern is a charming and compact fern with small, round leaves that grow along thin, wiry stems. Its petite size makes it a great option for smaller spaces or as part of a mixed plant arrangement.

To keep your Button Fern looking its best, consider these tips:

• Light: It prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions.
• Water: Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
• Humidity: It thrives in higher humidity, so consider misting or placing it near a humidifier.
• Temperature: It prefers temperatures between 60°F and 75°F.

The Button Fern is relatively low-maintenance and can be a delightful addition to any plant collection.

Japanese Painted Fern (Athyrium niponicum var. pictum)

The Japanese Painted Fern is a stunning variety known for its striking silver and purple foliage. This fern can add a touch of elegance and color to your indoor garden, making it a favorite among plant lovers who want a bit of variety in their greenery.

Here’s how to ensure your Japanese Painted Fern thrives:

• Light: It prefers partial to full shade, making it a great option for lower-light areas.
• Water: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
• Humidity: High humidity is ideal for this fern. Consider using a pebble tray or a humidifier.
• Temperature: It prefers cooler temperatures, ideally between 55°F and 75°F.

The Japanese Painted Fern’s unique coloring makes it a standout addition to any plant collection.

Rabbit's Foot Fern (Davallia fejeensis)

The Rabbit's Foot Fern is aptly named for its fuzzy, rhizome-covered roots that resemble a rabbit's foot. It's an intriguing plant that can add a bit of whimsy to your indoor garden. This fern is also relatively easy to care for, making it a fun choice for plant enthusiasts.

To keep your Rabbit's Foot Fern thriving, follow these tips:

• Light: It prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions.
• Water: Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
• Humidity: It enjoys higher humidity, so consider misting or using a humidifier.
• Temperature: It prefers temperatures between 60°F and 75°F.

The Rabbit's Foot Fern’s unique appearance makes it a conversation starter and a charming addition to any indoor space.

Conclusion

Ferns are incredibly diverse and can bring a unique beauty to any home. Whether you choose a classic Boston Fern or a more unusual Rabbit's Foot Fern, each variety offers something special. With the right care, these plants can thrive and add a touch of green to your living space.

At Cafe Planta, we love sharing our passion for plants. We offer a range of houseplants and accessories to help you create a thriving indoor garden. If you have any questions or need advice, we're here to help. You can reach us via email or Instagram. Let's grow together and bring a touch of nature into our homes!