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boston fern plant

Looking for an easy-care, lush indoor greenery that brings life to your home or office? The Boston fern plant is a classic choice, beloved for its graceful, arching fronds and air-purifying abilities. This tropical beauty, known as Nephrolepis exaltata, thrives in New Zealand conditions with a bit of moisture and filtered light, making it a favourite for beginner gardeners and seasoned plant collectors alike.

An Asplenium bulbiferum (Hen and Chicken Fern) growing in a shaded postion and displaying lush, green fronds.

Asplenium bulbiferum (Hen And Chicken Fern)

5 from 3 customers

Asplenium bulbiferum, commonly known as the Hen and Chicken Fern or Pikopiko Fern, is a popular NZ native prized for its lush, arching fronds and ability to produce baby ferns (plantlets) along the leaf edges. Ideal for shaded gardens, underplanting, or pots, it thrives in moist, well-drained soil with protection from direct sun and wind.

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type: Ferns
Height: 30 cm
Spread: 30 cm
Tolerances: Shade
Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Living areas, Parks, Paths & Steps, Ponds, Pool areas, Specimen
Garden styles: Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Native, Tropical
podocarpus-gracilior-

Podocarpus gracilior (African Fern Pine)

Podocarpus gracilior (Fern Pine) is an elegant evergreen tree valued for its fine textured foliage, graceful form, and versatility in the landscape. Despite its common name, it is not a true pine but offers a similar evergreen presence with a softer and more refined appearance.

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Trees
Height: 20.00 m
Spread: 10.00 m
Tolerances: Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy, Wind
Garden uses: Hedging, Parks, Screening, Specimen
Garden styles: Alpine, Coastal, Formal, Mediterranean
podocarpus-macrophyllus-maki-1
Podocarpus macrophyllus 'Maki' (Fern Pine)

Podocarpus macrophyllus 'Maki' (Fern Pine) is a compact, upright evergreen conifer prized for its dense, dark green foliage and naturally tidy growth...

From$192.51
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Zamioculcas Black Knight (Zamioculcas Plant)

Zamioculcas Black Knight is a very popular indoor plant owing to its dark and showy foliage. It grows as a clump and produces upright fronds which...

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Shadecloth - 70% Shade (Shade Cloth For Plants)

This shade cloth for plants, which is also used as plant windbreaks, reduces light levels and windspeeds by 70%. Therefore, 30% of the wind or light...

From$499.80
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Indoor Plant Fertiliser

All potted plants require indoor plant fertiliser. This is particularly important as many nurseries only put enough fertiliser in the pots to last...

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Fertiliser for acid loving plants

Fertiliser for acid loving plants provides targeted nutrition for plants that perform best in acidic soil conditions. It helps support healthy...

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Cistus 'Snowmound' (White Rock Rose Plant)

Cistus ‘Snowmound’ is a compact evergreen shrub that produces a breathtaking display of pure white flowers with golden-yellow centres from late...

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10 Litre Thermoformed Plant Pots

These lightweight pots are a cost effective means for growing on plants. They feature a strong and broad rim, have been UV stabilised for NZ...

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Sedum rubrotinctum (Jelly Bean Plant) bright red foliage.
Sedum rubrotinctum (Jelly Bean Plant)

Sedum rubrotinctum, commonly known as Jelly Bean Plant or Pork and Beans Plant, is a compact, low-growing succulent reaching 15–20 cm tall and...

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Clianthus puniceus (Parrot Beak Plant)

Clianthus puniceus (Kakabeak) is a spectacular New Zealand native shrub renowned for its striking clusters of brilliant red, beak shaped flowers that...

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Juncus effusus plants growing in water.
Juncus effusus (Soft Rush Plant)

Juncus effusus (Spiral Rush) is an eye catching rush valued for its distinctive twisting green stems, compact clumping habit, and strong...

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A strong and studry planting spade.
Ace1 Planting Spade

The Ace 1 planting spade is a must for any gardener. This spade is designed so it can penetrate the ground easily without jarring the wrists in the...

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2.5 Litre Plant Pots

2.5 Litre Plant Pots are a practical option for growing shrubs, perennials, grasses, herbs, and other developing plants. They provide ample root...

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0.5 Litre Plant Pots

0.5 Litre Plant Pots are a practical choice for growing young plants, herbs, seedlings, and smaller ornamentals. Their compact size makes them ideal...

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Moss Pole For Plants (Moss Pole For Plants)

These moss poles for plants are made from Coir Fibre (i.e., the husks of coconuts). They are an eco-friendly option to help plants grow healthier and...

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3.5 Litre Plant Pots

3.5 Litre Plant Pots are a versatile choice for growing shrubs, perennials, grasses, herbs, and other established plants. They provide generous root...

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Indoor Plant Fertiliser Tablets

Indoor plants require feeding from the time you get them home as nurseries typically only put enough fertiliser in the pots to last 4-8 weeks after...

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5 Litre Plant Pots

5 Litre Plant Pots are a practical choice for growing larger shrubs, perennials, grasses, herbs, and young trees. They provide generous root space to...

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1.5 Litre Plant Pots

1.5 Litre Plant Pots are a practical choice for growing young shrubs, perennials, grasses, herbs, and other developing plants. They provide useful...

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White waterproof paper plant tags for sale.
Waterproof Paper Plant Tags

Waterproof Paper Plant Tags provide a practical way to label plants, trays, pots, and nursery stock while resisting moisture during everyday growing...

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Plant watering bottle for watering a plant on a shelf.
Plant Watering Bottle

Plant Watering Bottles provide a simple and convenient way to deliver water directly to indoor plants, seedlings, cuttings, and small container...

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Native Plant Fertiliser

Native Plant Fertiliser is specially formulated to support healthy growth in a wide range of NZ native plants. It provides balanced nutrition to...

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Agave americana 'Variegata' (Variegated Century Plant)

Agave americana 'Variegata' is a striking evergreen succulent valued for its bold architectural form and strongly variegated foliage. It forms a...

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boston-fern-
Nephrolepis exaltata (Boston Fern)

Commonly known as the Boston Fern, this is a popular indoor plant owing to its ease to grow and attractive foliage. It produces lush foliage that is...

OUT OF STOCK
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Nephrolepis exaltata Boston Blue Bell (Boston Fern)

"Boston Blue Bell" is a selected variety of the commonly known, Boston Fern, and is a very popular indoor plant owing to its ease to grow and...

OUT OF STOCK
nephrolepis-pom-pom-2
Nephrolepis Pom Pom (Boston Fern)

Commonly known as the Boston Fern, “Pom Pom” is a popular indoor plant owing to its ease to grow and attractive foliage. It produces lush foliage...

OUT OF STOCK
Nephrolepis Mini fern in a pot.
Nephrolepis Mini (Mini Boston Fern)

Commonly known as the Mini Boston Fern, this is a popular indoor plant owing to its ease to grow and attractive foliage. It produces lush foliage...

OUT OF STOCK
A large Asplenium australasicum (Birds Nest Fern) with lush green fronds in a native garden.
Asplenium australasicum (Birds Nest Fern)

Asplenium australasicum, commonly known as the Bird’s Nest Fern, is a striking tropical fern with large, upright, leathery fronds that form a broad...

OUT OF STOCK
Parthenocissus tricuspidata with lush green foliage growing on a wall.
Parthenocissus tricuspidata (Boston Ivy)

Parthenocissus tricuspidata is a vigorous deciduous climbing vine, commonly known as Boston Ivy, and is prized for its glossy green foliage that...

OUT OF STOCK
Adiantum aleuticum ferns growing as a cluster and featuring lush,green foliage.
Adiantum aleuticum (Five-Finger Fern)

Adiantum aleuticum, commonly known as the Western Maidenhair Fern or Five-Finger Fern, carries attractive, soft, mid-green foliage. The new fronds...

OUT OF STOCK
doodia-australis-2
Doodia australis (Rasp Fern)

Doodia australis is a hardy evergreen fern admired for its fresh bronze red new fronds that mature to rich green, creating year round texture and...

OUT OF STOCK
Asplenium bulbiferum (Hen And Chicken Fern)

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Asplenium, Cistus, and Podocarpus, or related Categories - Shadecloth & Windbreak, Acid Loving Plants, and Indoor Plant Fertiliser.

Search boston fern plant

What Makes the Boston Fern Plant Special?

The Boston fern plant is more than just a pretty face. Its feathery, vibrant foliage creates a soothing, tropical feel—perfect for filling awkward corners or livening up your living space. It’s also renowned for its ability to improve indoor air quality by removing toxins and adding humidity, great for homes where dryness from heat pumps or heaters is an issue.

Boston ferns are versatile: they can be grown in hanging baskets, pots, or as part of a lush indoor jungle. With their robust, arching growth habit, they’re as suitable for contemporary apartments as they are for traditional homes.

Best Boston Fern Varieties for New Zealand

If you’re searching for the ideal Boston fern plant to suit your space and style, there’s a range of striking cultivars available:

How to Care for Your Boston Fern Plant

Boston fern plant care is straightforward with a few simple tips. They love indirect light—think bright but filtered, away from direct sun. Regular watering is key; keep the soil moist but not soggy and mist the leaves during dry spells to boost humidity. Use a free-draining potting mix and feed every month during the growing season for best results.

As a low-maintenance indoor plant, Boston ferns are excellent for those wishing to create a healthy, natural oasis at home. Place them in bathrooms, kitchens, or lounges to enjoy their calming presence and air-cleansing benefits.

Ready to Grow Your Own Boston Fern Plant?

Whether you’re after a classic Nephrolepis exaltata (Boston Fern) or something a bit different like the Nephrolepis Pom Pom (Boston Fern), browse our collection to find the perfect fit for your home or garden. With a Boston fern plant, you’ll add timeless beauty and healthy air to your indoor spaces—discover why generations of Kiwi gardeners have fallen in love with this iconic fern.


Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

You’ve probably heard of our garden favourites like Griselinia 'Broadway Mint' and Griselinia 'Canterbury', but did you know we also grow hidden gems like Osmanthus heterophyllus 'Variegatus', Sophora microphylla (Small Leaved Kōwhai), and Chaenomeles 'Alarm'?
–The Plant Company

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