Fabulous Ferns: 13 Ways to Decorate with This Versatile Houseplant

If "fern" triggers 1970s macramé planter flashbacks, it's time to reconsider this humble houseplant for today's decor. Ferns come in many shapes and sizes — from delicate maidenhair to masculine staghorn — so there's one for every taste. Their leafy fronds add texture and life to almost any room. Plus, ferns are fairly low maintenance: keep them damp (not soggy) and fertilize annually. Here are 13 rooms that may convince you to bring a fern home.

Verdant ferns make a dramatic statement in this black-and-white bedroom. Jamie Laubhan-Oliver placed two large ferns on plant stands flanking a mirrored dresser for symmetrical impact — a bold burst of life in a quiet room.

Jill Sorenson flanked this colorful vestibule's front door with big, bushy ferns. Foliage echoes the door's leafy hue, bringing outdoors in.

Ferns add color: a few greenery pops add natural vibe to this pale, interesting room by Laura Leiss Interiors. The coffee table fern and background greenery are the brightest color spots in an otherwise neutral room.

An asparagus fern (not technically a fern) adds life to a serene bedroom by Laura Leiss Interiors. Mixing live plants with natural textiles like jute and cowhide creates a truly organic look.

A collection of houseplants including fabulous ferns enlivens this sunny corner. Slightly wild plants feel at home in this bohemian interior. Don't be shy — the more, the merrier.

A mod interior feels more homey with a living plant. A small potted fern is ideal for this contemporary bedroom. Use a saucer to protect furniture surfaces.

Tucked into a dramatic gallery-like room corner, a fern in a tall urn is almost sculptural. Everyday plants seem special displayed this way.

Embrace the terrarium trend. Clear glass vessels by Shane Powers for West Elm excellently display diminutive ferns.

Ferns can replace flowers as centerpieces. Petite ferns arranged with silver candlesticks, table accessories, and a sleek glass cloche.

A lemon button fern potted in a chrome paint can makes a clever centerpiece for this casual tablescape by Brian Patrick Flynn (the "Décor Demon").

A collection of potted ferns and grasses adorns a vintage mantelpiece in Mikey Fuller's Shabby French Cottage home. Similar aged terra-cotta pots add character.

For an easy DIY with rustic country look: maidenhair ferns wrapped in burlap, displayed in a vintage plant stand.

Not ready to commit to growing a fern? Display cut fern fronds instead — enjoy the leafy look for as long (or short) as you wish.

More:
Firmly Planted: Choosing Houseplants
Bring on the Green: Decorating with Indoor Plants