Nephrolepis exaltata
sword fern
An evergreen fern to 1m tall, forming a large clump of narrow, arching, ladder-like, pinnate light green fronds to 2m long, the pinnae narrowly oblong or sickle-shaped; often produces young plants on runners. Good for air purification
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
1–1.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Partial shade
Aspect
North–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H1BBotanical details
- Family
- Lomariopsidaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Nephrolepis are rhizomatous, sometimes stoloniferous, evergreen ferns with narrow, pinnately divided fronds, broader and more highly dissected in many cultivars
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Tropics
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow indoors or under glass in a multipurpose compost or a mix of 1 part loam, 2 parts sharp sand, and 3 parts leaf mould in bright filtered light, with moderate to high humidity and good ventilation. During the growing season, water moderately soft water and apply a half-strength balanced liquid fertiliser monthly. Water sparingly in winter. Fronds can rot if they become too wet. See how to grow ferns as houseplants for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by spores, sow spores at 21°C (70°F) as soon as ripe. Separate rooted runners in late winter or early spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Houseplants
- Patio and container plants
- Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning
Remove any dead fronds
Pests
May be susceptible to scale insects
Diseases
Generally disease-free but may be susceptible to rot if fronds become too wet
Get involved
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