Ferns

Kenneth A. Langeland and Stephen F. Enloe

Edward F. Gilman, Dennis G. Watson, Ryan W. Klein, Andrew K. Koeser, Deborah R. Hilbert, and Drew C. McLean

The Australian tree fern (Sphaeropteris cooperi) is a tropical, single-trunked fern native to eastern Australia, growing 15-30 feet tall. It has finely textured, lacy, bipinnately compound leaves and thrives in USDA zones 10B-11, in well-drained, sandy loam soils with partial to full shade. It requires regular moisture and light fertilization. The plant is non-invasive and suitable for shaded landscapes or near water features. Common pests include mites, mealy bugs, and termites, but it generally resists diseases. Original publication date October 1999.

Stephen F. Enloe, Kenneth A. Langeland, and Jeffrey Hutchinson

Old world climbing fern is an aggressive, twining fern that forms dense smothering mats over trees, shrubs, and other vegetation. It spreads by wind-dispersed spores and is often found in very remote areas, making containment very difficult. This publication describes the biology and ecology of this invasive plant and provides management options for both public land managers and private landowners.

Edward F. Gilman, Ryan W. Klein, and Gail Hansen

This document provides an overview of the Dryopteris erythrosora, commonly known as the autumn fern, Japanese shield fern, or Japanese wood fern. It highlights the plant’s characteristics, including its hardy nature, slow growth rate, and ability to tolerate neglect. The fern is noted for its reddish fronds when young and its suitability as a groundcover in shady locations. The document also covers its planting requirements, such as soil and light preferences, and mentions its non-invasive nature and pest resistance. Additionally, it provides practical information on propagation and maintenance. Original publication date October 1999.

Edward F. Gilman, Ryan W. Klein, and Gail Hansen

This document provides an overview of Nephrolepis exaltata, commonly known as Boston Fern or Sword Fern. It describes the plant’s physical characteristics, including its long, narrow, pale green leaves and its ability to create dense, tropical ground cover. The document highlights the plant’s adaptability to various soil types and environmental conditions, such as its moderate drought tolerance and preference for partial to full shade. It also outlines the plant’s uses in landscaping, emphasizing its suitability for hanging baskets, containers, and mass plantings. Additionally, the document notes that while Boston Fern can be somewhat invasive in ideal conditions, it can be controlled through regular thinning and proper management.  Original publication date September 1999.

Keighly Graves, Wendy Wilber, Tom Wichman, Gail Hansen, andRyan Klein
Other Contacts: Claire Lewis

Leather fern is an herbaceous perennial plant with pinnately divided fronds emerging from the ground to form a beautifully textured, open form. Leather ferns are well suited for mass plantings, accents, or borders.

Edward F. Gilman, Keighly Graves, Wendy Wilber, Tom Wichman, Claire Lewis, Gail Hansen, andRyan Klein

Maidenhair fern is a fine-textured, delicate perennial plant that thrives in shady outdoor landscapes, or in bright indirect light indoors. This plant is excellent for use as a specimen plant, edging, or groundcover.

Patrick J. Minogue, Stella Jones, Kimberly K. Bohn, andElsa D. Chevasco

A UF/IFAS numbered Management.

Keighly Graves, Wendy Wilber, Tom Wichman, Claire Lewis, Gail Hansen, andRyan Klein

Bird’s nest fern is an epiphytic perennial with bright green leaves in a rosulate leaf arrangement, giving the appearance of a “bird’s nest.” It is an evergreen plant that is well suited as a specimen plant, used in a container or as a houseplant, or in the landscape as a groundcover or edging.

Bill Schall, Heqiang Huo, and Jianjun Chen

A UF/IFAS numbered Fact Sheet for Commercial audience(s). in support of UF/IFAS Extension program: Plant Systems