Ferns

Acrostichum daneifolium Leather Fern

Edward F. Gilman

This beautiful fern, which is native to Florida, grows larger than many other ferns, becoming 4 to 8 feet tall. The 3- to 6-foot-long, pinnately divided fronds emerge from the ground to form a beautifully textured, open form. The plant changes very little throughout the year, but provides a continual green mass of beautiful foliage. 

Natural Area Weeds: Distinguishing Native and Non-Native "Boston Ferns" and "Sword Ferns" (Nephrolepis spp.)

Kenneth A. Langeland and Stephen F. Enloe

Adiantum spp. Maidenhair Fern

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

This document is about the maidenhair fern (Adiantum spp.), a delicate, airy fern native to North America. It thrives in shady, moist environments and is suitable for both outdoor landscapes and indoor settings with bright, indirect light. The fern features light grey-green, soft foliage and is best planted in masses or as ground cover. It requires well-drained soils with high organic matter and does not tolerate dry conditions. The document details its growth habits, soil preferences, and potential pests, highlighting its ornamental value and suitability for various garden settings. Original publication date October 1999.

Sphaeropteris cooperi: Australian Tree Fern

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.

Natural Area Weeds: Old World Climbing Fern (Lygodium microphyllum)

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.

Dryopteris erythrosora Autumn Fern, Japanese Shield Fern, Japanese Wood Fern

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.

Nephrolepis exaltata Boston Fern, Sword Fern

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.

Biology and Control of Japanese Climbing Fern (Lygodium japonicum)

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

A UF/IFAS numbered Management.

Cultural Guidelines for Commercial Production of Boston Fern (Nephrolepsis exaltata 'Bostoniensis')

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