Nephrolepis exaltata (Boston Fern)

Is Nephrolepis exaltata (Boston Fern) Safe for Reptiles That Eat Leaves?

Yes. Boston Ferns are non-toxic and safe for reptiles, even those that eat leaves.If a reptile nibbles on the fronds, it is not known to cause poisoning or harm.

They can be used safely around:

• reptiles that occasionally graze on greens

• reptiles that may take accidental bites while exploring

• reptiles that rest in plants or hide in foliage

Boston ferns are widely used in reptile-safe plant lists because they are not poisonous and do not contain substances that are harmful to reptiles.

Appearance

The Boston fern has long, arching fronds made up of many small leaflets. The fronds grow soft, full, and bushy, creating a lush, tropical, fountain-shaped plant. It adds a bright green, delicate texture that makes any space look more vibrant.

Indoor Use

• Perfect for homes, reptile rooms, offices, and bathrooms.

• Loves bright, indirect light.

• It can handle medium light but will look thinner if the light is too low.

• Helps increase humidity in a room naturally.

• Works very well in hanging baskets or decorative pots.

Outdoor Use

• Can grow outdoors in warm climates with shade or filtered light.

• Needs protection from direct hot sun, which scorches the fronds.

• Great for patios, shaded gardens, or under trees.

• Cannot handle frost or temperatures below about 10°C for long periods.

Terrarium / Bioactive Use

• Excellent for humid tropical terrariums with enough space.

• Works very well for reptiles like crested geckos, day geckos, anoles, and other non-plant-eating species.

• Provides natural hiding, cover, and moisture.

• Needs strong humidity to thrive, so it fits perfectly into bioactive systems.

• Best in larger terrariums because the fronds can grow quite wide.

• Can be used in top corners to arch down or in the background to create a lush wall.

Watering

• Keep soil evenly moist.

• They dry out quickly and will crisp if under-watered.

• Water when the top feels slightly dry but don’t let the soil become muddy.

Humidity

• High humidity is ideal (60%+).

• Perfect for reptile rooms and terrariums that stay damp.

Temperature

• Best between 18–26°C.

• Protect from cold or sudden temperature drops.

When to Repot

Repot once a year or when:

• roots fill the pot

• plant dries out too fast

• roots push out of the drainage holes

Choose a pot one size bigger.

Soil to Use

A moisture-holding but airy mix:

• peat or cocopeat

• perlite

• quality potting soil

• optional: a little compost for extra richness

Troubleshooting

Crispy edges

Cause: too dry, low humidity, or missed waterings

Fix: increase humidity, water more consistently

Yellow fronds

Cause: overwatering, poor drainage, or old fronds aging

Fix: check drainage, reduce watering slightly, trim old fronds

Drooping / limp plant

Cause: underwatering or sudden temperature drop

Fix: water thoroughly and keep in a stable warm area

Brown tips

Cause: dry air, especially indoors with heaters

Fix: mist lightly, add a humidity tray, or move to a more humid spot

Sparse growth / thin plant

Cause: low light

Fix: move to brighter, indirect light