Nephrolepis exaltata ‘Vitale’ is a beautiful, lush green fern admired for its delicate, feathery foliage and naturally full, bushy appearance. Its vibrant green fronds arch gracefully outwards, creating a soft, cascading display that brings a wonderful woodland feel to any indoor space. With its fresh colouring and elegant growth habit, this charming Boston Fern looks particularly lovely in hanging planters, on shelves or displayed in decorative pots.
Scientific Name
Nephrolepis exaltata ‘Vitale’
Common Name(s)
Vitale Boston Fern, Boston Fern, Sword Fern
Origin
A cultivated variety of Nephrolepis exaltata, a fern species native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, where it grows in humid forests, swamps and other sheltered environments.
Light
Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate moderate light levels. Avoid strong direct sunlight, which can scorch its delicate fronds and cause the foliage to become dry and crispy. A position near an east-facing window or slightly away from a brighter window is ideal.
Water
Keep the compost consistently lightly moist without allowing it to become waterlogged. Water when the surface of the soil begins to feel dry, then allow excess water to drain away. Boston Ferns dislike drying out completely, which can cause fronds to turn brown and crispy. Reduce watering slightly during cooler months while maintaining some moisture around the roots.
Humidity
Loves high humidity, ideally above 60%. Bathrooms with natural light, kitchens and other naturally humid spaces are particularly suitable. A humidifier can help maintain healthy foliage in drier homes. Keep away from radiators and drying draughts.
Soil
Use a moisture-retentive but well-draining, peat-free houseplant mix. A combination of peat-free compost, fine orchid bark and perlite works well, providing moisture around the roots while allowing excess water to drain away.
Food
Feed every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced liquid houseplant fertiliser diluted to half strength. Ferns can be sensitive to overfeeding, so avoid applying fertiliser too frequently. Reduce feeding during autumn and winter.
Temperature
Prefers temperatures between 16–25°C. Protect from cold draughts, sudden temperature changes and prolonged temperatures below 12°C.
Pet-safe
Yes. True Boston Ferns (Nephrolepis) are generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Sprouts Top Tips
Consistency is key with Boston Ferns. Keep the compost lightly moist and provide plenty of humidity to prevent the delicate fronds from drying out.
If you notice brown or crispy foliage, check whether the soil has become too dry or the surrounding air is lacking humidity. Trim away damaged fronds at the base to encourage fresh growth.
Extras
‘Vitale’ develops a naturally full, arching growth habit, making it ideal for hanging planters, shelves and decorative pots. Its fresh green foliage provides a beautiful contrast alongside broader-leaved tropical houseplants.
Like other Boston Ferns, it may produce runners as it matures, which can sometimes develop into new plants. Established clumps can also be divided when repotting.
Did You Know?
Ferns are among the oldest groups of plants on Earth, with ancestors dating back hundreds of millions of years.
Unlike flowering plants, ferns reproduce through spores rather than seeds. These spores are often produced in small clusters on the undersides of mature fronds.
