Types of Ferns to Grow Indoors

Ferns are a class of plants that include about 12,000 species in 150 different families. In their native habitats, most types of ferns grow on the moist, nutrient-rich forest floor where they receive little light. Some are epiphytes, nestled on the branches of tall trees.

Just a dozen or so make their way into our homes. Their diverse forms offer plenty of variety to choose from, and make them fascinating to grow indoors in hanging baskets or perched on pedestals.

Boston Fern

In Victorian times, Boston fern could be found in many parlors and porches. Today, it's still a hands-down favorite in the home.

Caring for Boston ferns is easy. Just place your fern where it'll get indirect light (some direct morning sun is fine) and keep it moist. No pampering is required.

The fresh, lush Boston fern, shown here, is available for sale.

Maidenhair Fern

Intricately patterned leaflets make maidenhair fern (Adiantum raddianum) one of the most stunning ferns anywhere.

It's also one of the fussiest, preferring high humidity that's difficult to maintain in most homes. However, those dainty leaflets will thrive in a terrarium, surrounded in moist air.

Bird's Nest Fern

Fronds that unfurl from the center of the plant give birds nest fern its common name.

Lush and bold, the deeply veined fronds are spectacular, reaching 2 ft (60 cm) long.

Less finicky about humidity and light, this is one of the easier-to-please indoor ferns.