From the lush rainforests of South America to the tranquil islands of Southeast Asia, tropical ferns showcase an array of sculptural forms and beautifully detailed fronds. The lush and diverse foliage of ferns adds a rich texture and unique form to tropical gardens. Their delicate fronds create an interesting contrast with other foliage and plants, and add depth and dimension to the landscape. As house plants indoors or as garden specimens outdoors, ferns contribute to the feeling of being in a lush rainforest or jungle.
In this article we’ll help you to select the perfect new fern plant and find it a happy home by focusing on their distinctive characteristics and integration within tropical-style landscapes.
Uses of tropical ferns in landscaping and interior design
Tropical ferns are popular choices for the interior decorator and landscaper. In landscaping, tropical ferns contribute to lush and vibrant garden beds, borders, and groundcovers. The lush foliage and unique textures of different species of fern combine perfectly with other tropical plants to create a naturally restorative ambience. They can also be grown in containers and hanging baskets, adding vertical interest and creating a fresh and inviting tropical atmosphere on patios and balconies.
In interior design, tropical ferns are prized for their ability to bring the outdoors inside. Their vibrant green fronds can instantly transform a room, adding a sense of freshness and natural beauty. Potted ferns can thrive in a variety of indoor environments, including living rooms, offices, and bathrooms. Their low maintenance requirements make them ideal for busy individuals who want to enjoy the benefits of indoor plants without the hassle of extensive care. Most indoor varieties are an evergreen fern, so you can enjoy them all year round.
To take a deeper dive into landscaping with ferns see our article Why you need ferns in tropical style gardens.
Tree ferns
Best grown as outdoor ferns, these species of ferns are among the tallest fern species. As old fronds die off, they leave textured tree trunks with geometric patterns. The Cyathea spp. of tree ferns can tolerate brief periods of full sun.
Soft Tree Fern
Common Name: Soft Tree Fern
Botanical Name: Dicksonia antarctica
Appearance: With its majestic dark green fronds unfurling from a textured trunk, the Soft Tree Fern stands tall, exuding an ancient aura. Reaching heights of 15 to 20 feet, this fern commands attention.
Preferred Growing Conditions: Best in filtered light and consistently moist, well-draining soil, it epitomizes the essence of temperate rainforests.
Climate: USDA zones 9 to 11
Application in Garden Design: The Tree Fern lends vertical drama and a prehistoric touch to garden designs, ideal for adding structure or as a feature plant.
Australian Tree Fern
Common Name: Australian Tree Fern, Giant Tree Fern
Botanical Name: Cyathea cooperi
Appearance: This Australian native fern has arching, feathery fronds emanating from a textured trunk. Growing from 10 up to 30 feet, it makes a captivating focal point.
Preferred Growing Conditions: Flourishing in well-drained, moist soil and partial to full shade, it thrives in frost-free temperate and subtropical climates.
Climate: USDA zones 9 to 11
Application in Garden Design: This fern serves as a backdrop in tropical-style gardens or feature in large containers. The trunk features a geometric pattern providing additional interest at eye level.
Flying Spider Monkey Tree Fern
Common Name: Flying Spider Monkey Tree Fern,
Botanical Name: Cyathea lepifera, Sphaeropteris lepifera, Alsophila lepifera
Appearance: With its unfurled fronds forming a graceful arch, this tree fern exudes an understated elegance. Growing to heights of 10-20 feet, it brings a sense of refinement to garden spaces.
Preferred Growing Conditions: Thriving in well-drained, moist soil and 20-80% shade, it embodies the tranquility of mountain subtropical rainforests where it grows on steep cliffs and mountain ledges.
Climate: USDA zones 9b to 11
Application in Garden Design: With its towering stature, lush fronds, and storied lineage, the Flying Spider Monkey Tree Fern enriches garden designs with a touch of history and natural grandeur. It gets its name from the arched shape of new fronds that looks like monkey arms.
Miniature Tree Fern
Common Name: Miniature Tree Fern, Dwarf Tree Fern, Silver Lady Fern
Botanical Name: Oceaniopteris gibba, Blechnum gibbum
Appearance: Characterized by finely divided fronds that unfold gracefully, it brings a touch of delicate beauty to garden landscapes. Rising to heights of about 2 to 3 feet, it may be small in stature but is big on visual impact.
Preferred Growing Conditions: Growing best in medium to bright indirect light, it adapts seamlessly to both indoor and shaded outdoor environments. It needs higher temperatures overnight than the taller tree ferns.
Climate: USDA zones 10 to 11
Application in Garden Design: This fern makes a charming addition to shaded borders or containers, making it a cherished choice for those seeking botanical grace in compact spaces.
Epiphytic ferns
Epiphytic ferns are a group of ancient fern species that have evolved to grow on the surfaces of other plants, such as trees, without relying on the host plant for nutrients. Instead of drawing nutrients from the soil, epiphytic ferns absorb moisture and nutrients from the air and debris that accumulate around them. They can even be grown indoors as long as they have high humidity.
Harts Tongue Fern
Common Name: Hart’s Tongue Fern
Botanical Name: Asplenium scolopendrium
Appearance: The Hart’s Tongue Fern exhibits elongated, glossy green fronds with a unique, undulating edge. Growing to heights of 12 to 18 inches, it contributes a refined presence.
Preferred Growing Conditions: Flourishing in humus-rich, moist soil and partial to full shade, it embraces the tranquility of shaded environments.
Climate: USDA zones 5 to 8
Application in Garden Design: This fern adds a touch of sophistication to shaded borders or rock gardens, seamlessly melding simplicity and elegance.
Staghorn Fern
Common Name: Staghorn Fern
Botanical Name: Platycerum spp
Appearance: Staghorn Ferns boast antler-like fronds that emerge from a textured basal structure, creating a sculptural and captivating presence. Reaching heights of 2 to 3 feet, they make a bold statement in gardens.
Preferred Growing Conditions: Keep them in full shade or filtered light. As they are epiphytic in nature, you’ll often see them mounted on trees or structures.
Climate: USDA zones 9 to 12
Application in Garden Design: Staghorn Ferns serve as striking focal points when mounted on tall trees or walls, creating an instant tropical look in rainforest garden designs.
Bird’s Nest Fern
Common Name: Bird’s Nest Fern
Botanical Name: Asplenium nidus
Appearance: Characterized by wide, arching fronds that resemble a bird’s nest, the Bird’s Nest Fern is a captivating sight. Reaching heights of 2 to 3 feet, it commands attention with its lush presence.
Preferred Growing Conditions: Whether in the ground, a pot or the fork of a tree, it’s a versatile choice for both indoor and shaded outdoor settings. Give it medium to bright indirect light.
Climate: USDA zones 10 to 12
Application in Garden Design: The Bird’s Nest Fern adds a touch of drama and tropical elegance as a border in a shade garden. Alternatively, it makes a striking centerpiece in containers.
Clumping ferns
Clumping ferns, also known as “clump-forming ferns,” are perennial plants that grow in tight clusters or groups. Staying closely grouped together, their value is in forming dense and often attractive clumps of foliage. In nature you’ll find these wild ferns in shady spots in the understory of tropical forests.
Lace Fern
Common Name: Lace Fern, Asparagus Fern
Botanical Name: Asparagus setaceus
Appearance: It graces gardens with its delicate fronds that drape gracefully, resembling lace. While not a true fern, its intricate appearance brings an ethereal touch to garden spaces. Reaching lengths of 2 to 4 feet, it introduces a delicate charm that complements various garden settings.
Preferred Growing Conditions: Thriving in well-draining soil and basking in bright indirect light, it embraces both indoor and shaded outdoor environments.
Climate: USDA zones 9 to 11
Application in Garden Design: Lace Fern elevates the visual allure of garden landscapes with its softness and natural elegance. Add it to shaded rock gardens, borders, hanging baskets or container arrangements.
Foxtail Fern
Common Name: Foxtail Fern, Asparagus Fern
Botanical Name: Asparagus aethiopica
Appearance: This is the second example of the varieties known as Asparagus ferns. Its delicate, feathery fronds cascade gracefully, creating an elegant and airy atmosphere. Reaching heights of 2 to 4 feet, it adds a touch of sophistication to garden spaces.
Preferred Growing Conditions: A humid space with medium to bright indirect light is where this plant will be happiest. Keep its soil consistently moist but not wet.
Climate: USDA zones 9 to 11
Application in Garden Design: Whether draping gracefully from a hanging basket or adding a soft and romantic ambiance to container gardens, the Foxtail Fern becomes an enchanting presence that enhances the visual allure of garden settings.
Silver Brake Fern
Common Name: Silver Brake Fern, Silver Ribbon Fern
Botanical Name: Pteris cretica var. albolineata
Appearance: Its delicate, light green fronds are adorned with a striking silver-white central stripe. Growing up to 12 to 18 inches tall, it’s a modest but impactful addition.
Preferred Growing Conditions: Flourishing in medium to bright indirect light and well-draining soil, it’s a great choice for interiorscapes.
Climate: USDA zones 9 to 11
Application in Garden Design: With its ability to thrive in interiorscapes and its potential to serve as both a ground cover and a stunning addition to shaded garden beds, the Silver Brake Fern emerges as a choice element in garden design.
Boston Fern
Common Name: Boston Fern
Botanical Name: Nephrolepis exaltata
Appearance: Boston Ferns feature lush, arching fronds that exude a timeless sense of style, making them a long time favorite.
Size: Reaching heights of 2 to 3 feet, they present a substantial and verdant presence.
Preferred Growing Conditions: Boston ferns adapt well to both indoor and shaded outdoor environments. They like medium to bright indirect light.
Climate: USDA zones 9 to 11
Application in Garden Design: Boston Ferns serve as elegant ground covers in shaded borders or offer a touch of traditional sophistication as hanging plants or when potted for interior spaces.
Hard Fern or Deer Fern
Common Name: Hard Fern
Botanical Name: Blechnum spicant
Appearance: Characterized by arching fronds with distinctive pinnae, the Hard Fern embodies an architectural charm. Growing to heights of 12 to 24 inches, it presents a low-maintenance option.
Preferred Growing Conditions: Best in well-drained, moist soil and partial to full shade, it thrives in temperate climates.
Climate: USDA zones 5 to 8
Application in Garden Design: The Hard Fern’s architectural presence makes it a standout as a feature plant in modern gardens. Mass planting in shaded gardens or naturalistic landscapes lends a wild elegance.
Kiokio or Palm Leaf Fern
Common Name: Kiokio, Palm Leaf Fern
Botanical Name: Blechnum novae-zelandiae
Appearance: Kiokio features dark green, leathery fronds that unfurl gracefully, offering a touch of rugged beauty. Reaching heights of 12 to 24 inches, it’s a versatile fern for various garden spaces.
Preferred Growing Conditions: Suited to positions in partial to full shade and well-draining soil, it evokes the lushness of forested landscapes.
Climate: USDA zones 8 to 11
Application in Garden Design: Poised as a textured ground cover or a captivating addition to shaded garden beds, Kiokio embraces its role in embodying the essence of the wild in garden design.
Button Fern
Common Name: Button Fern
Botanical Name: Pellaea rotundifolia
Appearance: The Button Fern features rich green rounded, leathery fronds that lend a touch of unique simplicity to the garden. Growing to heights of 6 to 12 inches, it’s a modest yet captivating fern.
Preferred Growing Conditions: Environments, with dappled shade or filtered light will keep this fern flourishing.
Climate: USDA zones 9 to 11
Application in Garden Design: The Button Fern serves as a delightful ground cover in shaded rock gardens or adds texture and charm in terrariums or as a potted plant for interiorscapes.
Fishbone Fern
Common Name: Duffi Fern, Fishbone Fern
Botanical Name: Duffi nephrolepis
Appearance: Duffi Ferns feature elegant, arching fronds with a soft, feathery texture that exudes a sense of natural charm. Reaching heights of 2 to 3 feet, they introduce an airy and graceful presence.
Preferred Growing Conditions: Given medium to bright indirect light, fishbone ferns will adapt to indoor and shaded outdoor environments.
Climate: USDA zones 9 to 11
Application in Garden Design: Duffi Ferns infuse a touch of softness and grace to shaded garden beds or container arrangements, creating a tranquil atmosphere.
Kangaroo Paw Fern
Common Name: Kangaroo Paw Fern
Botanical Name: Microsorum diversifolium
Appearance: The Kangaroo Paw Fern features elongated fronds that drape gracefully, resembling the paw of a kangaroo. A low growing fern that stays below 18 inches (45 cm), it looks perfectly at home mixed with tall plants in a tropical garden.
Preferred Growing Conditions: It’s well-suited for indoor environments or full shade outdoors.
Climate: USDA zones 10 to 12
Application in Garden Design: The Kangaroo Paw Fern adds a distinctive touch to container gardens or shaded borders, supplementing other tropical foliage plants.
Mermaid Fern
Common Name: Mermaid Fern, Mermaid Tail Fern
Botanical Name: Microsorum punctatum
Appearance: This fern’s tips arch and curl delicately, resembling mermaid tails. Reaching heights of 1 to 2 feet, it adds a touch of fantasy to garden spaces.
Preferred Growing Conditions: With medium to bright indirect light, it’s ideal for both indoor and shaded outdoor environments.
Climate: USDA zones 10 to 12
Application in Garden Design: The Mermaid Fern creates a whimsical and enchanting atmosphere and adds a playful touch to fairy gardens, terrariums, or as an accent in shaded rock gardens.
Tropical ferns for indoors
Most of these next ferns come from a humid ecosystem so enjoy the stable atmospheric conditions growing indoors as a potted fern. House-grown ferns won’t grow as large as outdoor ferns so they are great plants for terrariums and paludariums.
Crocodile fern
Common Name: Crocodile Fern
Botanical Name: Microsorum crocodyllus
Appearance: The Crocodile Fern earns its name from the unique texture on its fronds, reminiscent of crocodile skin. It’s a compact fern with a captivating presence and will grow to 1-2 feet tall.
Preferred Growing Conditions: Tolerating low to medium light conditions, it adapts well to indoor environments.
Climate: USDA zones 10 to 12
Application in Garden Design: The Crocodile Fern adds a touch of intrigue and textural diversity to shaded rock gardens or as a potted plant for interiorscapes.
Kimberly Queen Fern
Common Name: Kimberley Queen Fern
Botanical Name: Nephrolepis obliterata
Appearance: The Kimberley Queen Fern showcases gracefully arching fronds with a unique texture, lending an air of contemporary elegance. At a mature height of 2 to 3 feet, it stands tall as a striking accent.
Preferred Growing Conditions: Grow this fern in both indoor and shaded outdoor environments.
Climate: USDA zones 9 to 11
Application in Garden Design: The Kimberley Queen Fern adds a touch of modern sophistication to contemporary landscapes, or it can be showcased as a potted statement plant in stylish interior spaces.
Cobra Fern
Common Name: Cobra Fern, Crispy Wave Fern
Botanical Name: Asplenium Nidus ‘Cobra’
Appearance: The new growth gradually unfurls into lush, wavy forms, adding an intriguing sculptural element to its visual appeal. Reaching heights of 18 to 24 inches, it makes and ideal potted specimen.
Preferred Growing Conditions: It adapts well to both indoor and shaded outdoor environments.
Climate: USDA zones 10 to 11
Application in Garden Design: The unique and sculptural growth pattern of Asplenium nidus ‘Cobra’ makes it a standout choice for both indoor and outdoor landscaping. It can be grown in containers or planted in shaded garden beds to add an element of intrigue and visual texture.
Maidenhair Fern
Common Name: Maidenhair Fern
Botanical Name: Adiantum spp
Appearance: Maidenhair Ferns feature delicate, fan-like fronds that sway gently, casting an ethereal and delicate charm. Growing to heights of 12 to 18 inches, they introduce a sense of delicacy to garden spaces.
Preferred Growing Conditions: Flourishing in well-draining soil and medium to bright indirect light, they thrive in shaded environments.
Climate: USDA zones 8 to 11
Application in Garden Design: Maidenhair Ferns create an enchanting atmosphere in shaded rock gardens or as a soft underplanting for taller shrubs and trees.
Tropical-look ferns for cold and temperate regions
We’ve looked past the world’s tropical rainforests and found some cool-climate ferns for those of you who love the tropical look. Make sure you research each fern’s preferred environmental conditions and suitability for your particular area.
Royal Fern
Common Name: Royal Fern
Botanical Name: Osmunda regalis
Appearance: With its striking erect fronds and fertile fronds resembling cinnamon sticks, the Royal Fern exudes a regal aura. A large fern, it grows to an impressive of 3 to 6 feet tall.
Preferred Growing Conditions: Loving consistently moist to wet soil and partial to full shade, it thrives in marshy or pondside locations.
Climate: USDA zones 3 to 10
Application in Garden Design: The Royal Fern imparts a lush, wetland-inspired feel to water gardens or moist borders, elevating the visual drama and ecologic value of these areas.
Holly Fern
Common Name: Holly Fern
Botanical Name: Cyrtomium falcatum
Appearance: With its glossy, leathery fronds resembling holly leaves, the Holly Fern evokes elegance and formality. At full maturity it will attain heights of 18 to 24 inches.
Preferred Growing Conditions: This fern excels in shaded garden settings.
Climate: USDA zones 6 to 11
Application in Garden Design: The Holly Fern enhances the visual allure of shaded borders or woodland gardens, offering a hint of traditional charm and sophistication.
Japanese Painted Fern
Common Name: Japanese Painted Fern
Botanical Name: Athyrium niponicum var. pictum
Appearance: With silvery fronds adorned by contrasting purple veins, the Japanese Painted Fern is a living work of art. Growing to heights of 12 to 18 inches, it stands as an elegant presence.
Preferred Growing Conditions: The perfect understory plant for full or part shade gardens with well drained soil.
Climate: USDA zones 4 to 8
Application in Garden Design: The Japanese Painted Fern adds a touch of ethereal beauty to shaded rock gardens or woodland borders, creating visual intrigue and contrast.
Ostrich Fern
Common Name: Ostrich Fern
Botanical Name: Matteuccia struthiopteris
Appearance: Ostrich Fern boasts grand, erect fronds resembling ostrich plumes, creating a dramatic and imposing presence. Reaching heights of 2 to 6 feet, it adds vertical structure to garden spaces.
Preferred Growing Conditions: Ostrich Fern loves consistently moist, humus-rich soil and partial to full shade. This is a deciduous fern so its fronds turn yellow in the fall and then die back over winter. In early spring the new growth appears.
Climate: USDA zones 2 to 7
Application in Garden Design: The Ostrich Fern excels in shaded borders or surrounding water features.
How to care for tropical ferns
To fully appreciate the splendor of tropical ferns, understanding their preferred growing environments and conditions is paramount. One of their defining characteristics is their ability to flourish in the warm and humid conditions of typical of a tropical climate.
Unlike many other plant species that struggle in such climates, tropical ferns have evolved to thrive in them. They have adapted their physiological processes to effectively absorb water from the air. This innate adaptability is what allows them to maintain their lush appearance even in the face of intense tropical heat.
Additionally, maintaining consistent moisture levels without too much water is essential. While tropical ferns are accustomed to regular rainfall, they can be sensitive to waterlogged soils. Incorporate organic matter into the soil to improve water retention, and water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Epiphytic ferns, such as the Staghorn Fern (Platycerium spp.) often grow on trees in their natural habitat, absorbing moisture from the humid air and rain. If you’re growing them as epiphytes they’ll need a dripper or mister system to deliver water to them as they can’t absorb it from the soil.
Cultivating tropical ferns in indoor and outdoor spaces
Whether you have a spacious garden or a cozy apartment, to successfully grow tropical ferns, it is important to provide them with the right conditions and care. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
Watering: To simulate the natural rhythm of rainfall in tropical regions, water your ferns consistently. Allow the top inch of soil to dry before watering thoroughly, preventing both dehydration and waterlogging.
Light: Position your ferns in areas with filtered or indirect light, mimicking the gentle sunlight that filters through the tropical canopy. To ensure even growth, rotate indoor ferns every few weeks to expose all sides of the plant to light.
Temperature: Aim to keep the temperature between 65°F and 75°F (18°C to 24°C). Tropical ferns are sensitive to extreme temperatures, both hot and cold. Keep them away from air conditioning vents, open windows, and doors that may cause rapid changes in temperature. If you live in an area with harsh winters, consider bringing your ferns indoors or providing them with extra protection during the colder months.
Humidity: Maintain a humidity level of around 50% to 70%. Elevate humidity levels by employing humidity trays, especially in indoor environments. This is crucial for ferns like the Staghorn Fern (Platycerium spp.), which naturally absorb moisture from the air.
Soil: Replicate their preferred well-draining soil by adding compost or organic matter to enhance water retention. The enriched soil provides a nurturing base for optimal growth and replicates the rich soil on the rainforest floor.
Fertilization: During the growing season, feed your tropical ferns with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Follow recommended instructions to ensure appropriate nutrient intake.
Pruning: Remove dead or yellowing fronds to encourage new growth and maintain a neat appearance.
Pests and Diseases: Regularly inspect for common pests like aphids or scale insects. Address any infestations promptly to prevent damage to delicate fronds.
Repotting: As your ferns grow, repot them into slightly larger containers with fresh soil to accommodate their expanding root systems. This promotes healthy growth and vitality.
By providing the right conditions and care, you can create a thriving tropical oasis in your indoor or outdoor space, filled with lush and vibrant ferns.
Build your tropical fern collection
In the enchanting world of tropical ferns, textured foliage and intricate patterns come together to create a visual spectacle like no other. By following the tips for identifying and caring for tropical ferns, you can create a thriving tropical oasis. So go ahead, embrace the diversity of tropical ferns and let their fresh green fronds find a home in your tropical landscape.
Still have questions?
Are there concerns that were not addressed here? We’re here to help.
References:
Ho Y-W, Huang Y-L, Chen J-C, Chen C-T. Habitat Environment Data and Potential Habitat Interpolation of Cyathea Lepifera at the Tajen Experimental Forest Station in Taiwan. Tropical Conservation Science. 2016;9(1):153-166. doi:10.1177/194008291600900108
This article was written and researched by:
Last updated on:
We think you might like to take a look at these too:
- How to choose the best pots for Monstera plants
- Backyard tropical landscaping ideas for along a fence
- Ultimate palm trees for around pools in your climate
- Gunnera is banned in the UK: What you need to do now
- Is stone or mulch best for tropical garden landscaping?
- How to propagate Philodendron Birkin: 3 easy methods
