Economically important ornamental ferns in Lucknow city of Uttar Pradesh, India

Abstract

An extensive survey on ornamental ferns of nurseries and florist shops in Lucknow city was conducted during 2022-2023. Hence, the objective of the study was to evaluate the ornamental traits and economic importance of different fern species and to highlight suitability for ornamental uses in urban localities of Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh India.  Ferns, with their amazing shape, color, texture of fronds and other ornamental traits, are of great significance in urban localities of this city for various types of decoration. They can also be used as fillers in bouquets and flower arrangements. Diversity was noticed in shape, color, texture and tip of pinna among fern species used in ornamental purposes like Nephrolepis exaltata L., Nephrolepis exaltata L. Bostonensis (Golden Fern), Nephrolepis exaltata L. variegata (Tiger Fern), Nephrolepis exaltata L. (Fluffy Ruffle), Nephrolepis falcata L. (fishtail), Nephrolepis cordifolia ‘Duffii’ L. (Button Fern), Adiantum capillus-veneris   L (Maiden-hair Fern) and Christella dentata  Forssk. (Soft Fern) are suitable for outdoor. Nephrolepis exaltata L.Bostonensis (Golden Fern), Nephrolepis exaltata L. variegata (Tiger Fern), Nephrolepis exaltata  L (Fluffy Ruffle) and Adiantum capillus -veneris  L (Maidenhair Fern) are best for outdoor, indoor, hanging basket and ground cover.  Nephrolepis exaltata and Nephrolepis tuberosa are also used as fillers in many kinds of bouquets and arrangements. The moneymaking cultivation of these ferns can serve as a great money-spinning initiative for improving the livelihood of unprivileged, rural people, women and farmers in many cities of Uttar Pradesh.