grown as a house plant, it is necessary to mist the plant when relative humidity falls below around 80%. Although the plant prefers partial shade or full shade outdoors, it doesn't grow in shade when indoors and responds best to bright filtered light. The plant is usually propagated by division of the rooted runners, as named cultivars will not produce true spores. It is safe for pets as it is known to be non-toxic. Cultivars A number of cultivars exist: 'Teddy Junior' 'Bostoniensis' 'Sonata' 'Montana' 'Green Lady' 'Marissa' (a dwarf variety) 'Todeoides' 'Whitmanii Improved' 'Rooseveltii' The following are recipients of the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit:- Nephrolepis exaltata Nephrolepis exaltata 'Bostoniensis' Nephrolepis exaltata 'Elegantissima' Invasive species A related species, Nephrolepis cordifolia (Tuberous sword fern), is frequently confused with this sword fern, and is a serious exotic invasive plant, forming dense monocultures. Nephrolepis exaltata is classified as an invasive alien plant in South Africa. In some provinces it must be eradicated by law. In others, a permit is required to import, possess, grow, breed, move, sell, buy or accept one as a gift. References External links Floridata: Nephrolepis exaltata exaltata Ferns of the Americas House plants Low light plants