'Fluffy Ruffles' fern guide
Nephrolepis exaltata 'Fluffy Ruffles', also called Fluffy Ruffles Boston fern, ruffled fern
Published 2026-11-08
Quick care
- Light
- Bright indirect
- Water
- Keep the soil moist, never soggy
- Humidity
- High. Dry air makes it shed.
- Temperature
- 16 to 24°C (60 to 75°F). Keep above 10°C (50°F).
- Soil
- Rich, peat or coir-based potting mix
- Feeding
- Half-strength fertilizer monthly in spring and summer
- Pets
- Non-toxic to cats and dogs
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Mature size
- 30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 in) tall and wide
- Propagation
- Divide the clump, or pot up runners
- Where to buy
- Common
This page covers what makes 'Fluffy Ruffles' fern different. For light, water, soil, pests, and the rest, read the Boston fern care guide.
What it is
‘Fluffy Ruffles’ is a Boston fern with short, stiff, upright fronds. Each leaflet is ruffled and frilled, so the fronds look thick and fluffy. It stays smaller and more upright than a regular Boston fern.
How to tell it apart
| Plant | Fronds | The tell |
|---|---|---|
| ‘Fluffy Ruffles’ | Short, stiff, ruffled leaflets | Upright, frilled fronds |
| Boston fern | Long, arching, flat leaflets | Long fronds that droop over the pot |
| Lemon button fern | Short, round button leaflets | Tiny round leaflets |
Care differences
Its dense fronds trap moisture. Water the soil, not the fronds. It holds up a bit better in dry air than a regular Boston fern, but it still wants humidity.
Grow it by division
Divide the clump in spring. Runners also root where they touch soil.
Buying it
‘Fluffy Ruffles’ is common at garden centers. Look for green, upright fronds with no brown in the center.