It may seem unbelievable, but ferns have been on the planet for over 350 million years. This is the same period in which researchers say fungi originated — incredible, isn’t it? Learn about the types of ferns and choose one to decorate your home!
Since there are so many types of ferns in the world, it is impossible to talk about them all in this content. Therefore, we will tell you the characteristics of the most common ones. This way, you can get to know them a little and choose the species of fern that best matches your home decor. Check it out below.
Many species of the same plant
To know the types of ferns , it is important to understand that there are many varieties. Below, you will learn about the most common ones, which are those with lace-shaped or long leaves.
Subway fern
Looking for a large version? Then the tube fern ( Polypodium persicifolium ) is exactly what you’re looking for. After all, it’s the largest of all fern types in the world.
Also known as weeping vine, it has leaves that can reach an incredible two meters in length. Because of this, it is popular among decorators, used to create green spaces on balconies, living rooms and even garages.
It is best to keep it in a hanging pot to allow the leaves to grow freely. However, it can also be planted in treetops, as long as there is partial shade in the area.
Jamaican fern
Despite its name, this type of fern plant , with the scientific name Phymatosorus scolopendria , is native to India. It is a strong plant, as the branches are rooted in the ground and tend to grow horizontally.
Did you know that this is one of the types of fern that grows very large? Its leaves can reach up to 70 cm in height, making it impressive at first sight.
Maidenhair fern
The maidenhair fern ( Adiantum capillus-veneris ) is the right choice for those who enjoy gardening and indoor decoration. Maximum height is 40 cm. To reach this size, remember to keep it in the shade and, preferably, indoors.
In addition to being an incredible “accessory” for your home decor, this plant has medicinal properties, as it is a diuretic, antioxidant, expectorant and laxative. Just make a tea with its leaves!
American fern
This type that we are going to present is one of the most cultivated in our country: the American fern ( Nephrolepis exaltata ). You have probably seen it somewhere, after all, the light green color of the large leaves that grow in all directions is unmistakable.
In fact, those who have this large fern at home, which grows up to 60 cm, tend to place it in a hanging pot. This adds an extra touch of elegance to the decor, as the heavy leaves hang down, creating a veil.
Remember that if you want to have this type of fern at home, you need to find a shady place away from strong winds. This is because, even though it likes the heat, it tends to turn yellow in direct sunlight and is more susceptible to pests .
Amazon fern
It grows very quickly, so don’t be surprised! You can find some that are up to a meter long in ornamental decorations, making it a very eye-catching plant .
If you choose to care for this plant, water it frequently, but do not leave the soil soaked, keeping it in semi-shade and away from places with strong winds, so that its leaves do not break.
Staghorn Fern
The staghorn fern ( Platycerium bifurcatum ) gets its name from its fronds, which grow in a similar fashion to deer antlers. It is common to see them on tree trunks, but this does not make them parasitic.
During the breeding season, the underside of the leaf tips becomes covered in brown “dust,” which is nothing more than spores. Many people mistake it for pests and remove it, but this should not be done, as it is a natural process of the plant.
Hawaiian fern
The tiny fern or curly fern are other names for the Hawaiian fern (Nephrolepis exaltata). It is perfect for small places because it is one of the tiniest ferns in the world.
It is a green plant that enjoys a humid environment. In fact, it is recommended to spray its leaves with water daily on hot days. Like other ferns, it likes partial shade and shade, and should not be placed where there are strong winds.
Rare ferns
There are some rare types of ferns that are so beautiful that they leave anyone speechless! Most of the ferns we know are colored in shades of green.
However, some of the rarest ferns known are blue (blue fern) or jade (jade fern). One variety of these ferns is the snake fern, which has serpent-shaped leaves. Curious, isn’t it?