The exquisite variegation on this plant has been distracting us ever since it arrived in the shop. Its medium-green fronds are interspersed with paler, spring green, and where the two meet is a marbled effect, like feathering on a cake or tiger stripes. To keep this beautiful plant happy, it needs somewhere with high humidity, out of harsh, direct sunlight - and preferably somewhere its gorgeous colouring can be admired up close. It needs plenty of space too, growing up to two feet (60cm) tall and three (90cm) wide as a houseplant. We'd love for this stunning plant to be admired for a long time in your home... not least because then we would stop staring at it and do some work!

Scientific Name
Nephrolepis exaltata 'Tiger' (kidney-scaled plant with upraised fronds, cultivar: Tiger)

Common Name
Boston Fern, Sword Fern, Variegated Boston Fern, Variegated Sword Fern, Tiger Boston Fern

Origin
This fern is native to tropical areas of the Americas, Southeast Asia and Africa.

Light
Bright but indirect light is best. Try to put this fern somewhere it doesn't get any direct sun, but that still gets natural light bright enough to read by. If you notice new growth coming through without the paler colouring, it is probably getting too little light.

Water
Keep the soil moist but not soggy; water when only the top of the soil has dried out. Try not to get water on the leaves as this can rot them; bottom watering is a good way to water this plant!

Humidity
This Boston Fern loves high humidity, and can dry out quickly if the air is not moist enough; if you spot the leaves on the ends of fronds going brown and crispy, it may be time to introduce a humidity tray.

Soil
Use a well-draining but moisture retentive soil to keep this thirsty plant happy and not too soggy. A mix with added coir and sand, or one designed for ferns, will work well here.

Food
Feed every four waters in the growing season, reduce to every six in autumn and winter.

Temperature
Ideal temperature is 18-27°C; make sure it does not get colder than 10°C in winter.

Pet-safe
Yes, but too much nibbling won't be good for pets, small humans or the plant!

Sprouts Top Tips
As with most ferns, if you get the moisture levels right, you've nailed it with this plant! HIgh humidity and moist soil are the best ways to ensure your plant is happy.