Boston ferns, Nephrolepis exaltata Bostoniensis', are a tropical fern native to humid forests in the Americas, particularly in Florida, Central America, and parts of South America.
Today, they are a popular for porches in the summer. But here in Tennessee (zone 7b) they can be a little high maintenance if you're not careful.
If you remember nothing else, remember that ferns HATE to be neglected! They will die quickly from yo-yo watering.