Boston fern

American  

noun

1. a variety of sword fern, Nephrolepsis exaltata bostoniensis, having long, narrow, drooping fronds.

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Etymology

Origin of Boston fern

First recorded in 1895–1900

Example Sentences

Five easy-to-grow plants recommended by RHS include the Madagascar dragon tree, English ivy, rubber plant, Boston fern and Sansevieria trifasciata.

From BBC • Mar. 1, 2026

The popular Boston fern, in spite of its name, is a tender plant that can be used as a summer-into-fall annual.

From Washington Post • Jul. 8, 2015

Fifteen minutes later, in they flew through the open window of the Littles’ living room and landed on the Boston fern.

From "Stuart Little" by E.B. White

Snowbell crept softly toward the bookshelf and climbed noiselessly up into the chair within easy reach of the Boston fern where Margalo was asleep.

From "Stuart Little" by E.B. White

“Climb this vine, enter George’s room through the open window, then go downstairs and you’ll find the bird asleep in the Boston fern on the bookcase.”

From "Stuart Little" by E.B. White