Fern (Nephrolepis)

Nephrolepis is a genus of ferns grown for their arching, divided fronds and leafy texture. Species and cultivated forms vary in size, growth pattern, and growing needs, so a genus-level record should be used as a broad identification rather than a single care prescription. [RHS Nephrolepis profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/11506/nephrolepis/details) · [Kew Plants of the World Online](https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:17160590-1/general-information) ## Identification The genus includes sword ferns, and RHS also lists Boston fern and ladder fern as common names. Nephrolepis plants have rhizomes and may produce stolons; their fronds are usually narrow and pinnately divided, while many horticultural forms have broader or more finely divided fronds. Kew describes the genus as pantropical and notes that its species can be variable. ## Garden and indoor use Different Nephrolepis species are grown as ornamentals indoors, in containers, and in suitable warm outdoor settings. Some are terrestrial and others can grow epiphytically. Identify the species or named form before choosing mature spacing, light, moisture, or temperature; these details are not uniform across the genus. ## Maintenance Match care to the identified species and the conditions where it is grown. Keep the root zone appropriate to that plant’s needs, remove damaged fronds as needed, and allow enough space for its mature form.