Nephrolepis exaltata 'Boston Blue Bell' – Pet-Safe Fern with Elegant Arching Fronds
Nephrolepis exaltata (L.) Schott 'Boston Blue Bell' is a compact, low-maintenance fern with finely divided fronds that cascade gracefully in hanging planters or desktop pots. This cultivar of the classic Boston fern is prized for its lush texture, air of tranquility, and ability to adapt to typical indoor humidity levels. Safe for pets and children, it's the perfect choice for homes, offices, or bathrooms where moisture and light can vary.


Why Nephrolepis exaltata 'Boston Blue Bell' Is Ideal for Indoor Spaces


 
Decorative Appeal: Lush, arching fronds with a soft texture and deep green hue
 
Compact Growth: Reaches 40–50 cm tall and wide – perfect for shelves, windowsills, or hanging baskets
 
Pet- and Kid-Friendly: Non-toxic to cats, dogs, and humans
 
Beginner-Friendly: Forgiving and resilient with proper light and watering


Botanical Profile and Natural Habitat


 
Species: Nephrolepis exaltata (L.) Schott, published in Gen. Fil. ad t. 7 (1834)
 
Native Range: Moist, shaded tropical forests of South America and the West Indies
 
Growth Habit: Evergreen fern with arching, pinnate fronds and creeping rhizomes


How to Care for Nephrolepis exaltata 'Boston Blue Bell'



Light
 
Best in bright, indirect light; tolerates low light with slower growth
 
Avoid direct midday sun, which can cause frond burn

Watering
 
Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy
 
Water when the top 1–2 cm feels dry to the touch

Humidity and Temperature
 
Humidity: Prefers 50–70%; benefits from misting, grouping, or a nearby humidifier
 
Temperature: Thrives at 18–24 °C; avoid drafts and temperatures below 10 °C

Soil and Repotting
 
Use a loose, organic-rich potting mix with peat, perlite, and bark
 
Repot every 1–2 years when rootbound or to refresh substrate

Fertilizing
 
Feed every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring to autumn) with a diluted liquid fertilizer

Propagation
 
Propagate by dividing root clumps or transplanting stolon offshoots

Pruning and Cleaning
 
Remove yellow, brown, or older fronds regularly
 
Rinse foliage under lukewarm water monthly to remove dust

Placement Tips
 
Ideal for hanging baskets, terrariums, or bathrooms with filtered light
 
Avoid spots near radiators, heaters, or cold air vents


Common Issues and How to Fix Them


 
Brown Tips: Caused by low humidity or hard tap water; switch to distilled water and raise ambient moisture
 
Yellowing Leaves: Often from overwatering or poor drainage – improve substrate and watering schedule
 
Pests: Inspect regularly for mealybugs, spider mites, and scale; treat early with neem oil or insecticidal soap


Fun Facts and Etymology


 
Nephrolepis: From Greek “nephros” (kidney) + “lepis” (scale), referencing spore-bearing structures
 
Exaltata: Means “elevated” in Latin, describing the upright form of the wild type
 
'Boston Blue Bell' is named for its elegant, blue-green fronds that resemble the shape of bellflowers


FAQs About Nephrolepis exaltata 'Boston Blue Bell'


 
Is it beginner-friendly?Yes, as long as you maintain regular watering and avoid dry air, it's quite forgiving.
 
Can I grow this in a bathroom?Absolutely. High humidity and indirect light make bathrooms ideal.
 
Can it survive in low light?Yes, but growth slows and fronds may appear thinner – supplement with a grow light if needed.


Order Nephrolepis exaltata 'Boston Blue Bell' Today


Looking for a compact, pet-safe, and elegant fern for your indoor jungle? Order Nephrolepis exaltata 'Boston Blue Bell' today and enjoy its lush, tropical texture year-round!