Tiger Boston Fern in 6″ Pot

A compact, clump-forming sport of the classic Boston fern, prized for its bold variegation. Fronds are the same arching, sword-shaped, pinnate shape as N. exaltata ‘Bostoniensis’—upright at first, then gracefully cascading—but the leaflets (pinnae) are streaked and marbled with chartreuse-yellow to creamy-gold against deep green, giving a “tiger stripe” effect. Fronds reach 45–60 cm (1.5–2 ft) long indoors (up to 90 cm/3 ft in ideal conditions), forming a bushy mound 0.5–1 m (1.5–3 ft) tall and wide. Great for hanging baskets, terrariums, and shaded patios; RHS lists it as good for air-purification.

Quick care: bright, indirect light (east/north window; a little gentle morning sun is okay—direct midday sun scorches the yellow areas, too little light fades variegation). Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy—water when the top 2–3 cm feels dry; don’t let it dry out completely (fronds shed) or sit in water (rot). Loves high humidity (60 %+): mist regularly, use a pebble tray or humidifier; dry air browns leaflet tips. Prefers 16–24 °C (60–75 °F); avoid cold drafts and heat vents. Use a loose, peat-free multipurpose or a mix of loam/sand/leaf mould that drains well yet holds moisture. Feed monthly spring–early fall with a half-strength balanced liquid fertilizer; reduce in winter. Repot every 1–2 years; remove dead fronds. Non-toxic to pets and people.