Marisa Fern
Nephrolepis exaltata 'Marisa'
The Marisa Fern, a dainty and elegant cultivar of the Boston Fern family, is often referred to as the Cotton Candy Fern due to its exceptionally soft, finely-textured, and multi-layered fronds. This evergreen fern creates a lush, cloud-like appearance that adds a touch of ethereal beauty to any indoor space. Unlike its larger relatives, 'Marisa' remains relatively compact, making it an ideal choice for terrariums, hanging baskets, or tabletop displays.
Light
Bright Indirect
Water
High
Difficulty
Moderate
Humidity
High
Pet Friendly
The Marisa Fern is considered non-toxic to cats and dogs, making it a safe choice for pet-friendly households.
Care Guide
Light and Placement
Position your Marisa Fern in a spot that receives bright, filtered light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can quickly scorch the delicate, thin fronds. An east-facing window or a spot a few feet back from a south-facing window is ideal.
Watering and Humidity
Keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. This fern does not tolerate drying out; even a single day of dry soil can cause significant frond loss. High humidity is critical—aim for levels above 60%. Use a humidifier, a pebble tray, or place the plant in a naturally humid room like a bathroom.
Temperature
Maintain temperatures between 60°F and 75°F (15°C - 24°C). Keep it away from cold drafts and heating vents.
Seasonal Tips
In winter, growth slows down, so reduce watering frequency slightly, but never let the soil go completely dry. Increase humidity efforts as indoor air becomes dryer.
In-Depth Care & Growth
Feeding & Soil
Fertilizer
Balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted to half-strength
Soil
A rich, peat-based potting mix with added perlite or vermiculite for drainage and moisture retention.
Physical Attributes
Mature Size
12-18 inches tall and wide
Growth Rate
Moderate
Propagation
Propagated through division of the root ball or by removing and potting up the runners (stolons) that grow from the base.