This is the fern that is commonly used in floral arrangements: Leatherleaf Fern.

Here is a link that might be useful: Leatherleaf Fern

I brought in a frond of Dryopteris celsa for a vase and even my husband remarked at how long it lasted. But I don't believe this is an uncommon fern characteristic. My guess is that you stumbled on one particular type that doesn't hold up well. I think that most would.

Though not a fern, Asparagus sprengeri (aka Asparagus Fern) fit the bill, too.

What a great question. I brought in a frond of the Japanese Painted fern and it died rapidly too. But then I don't know if there is a special way to cut ferns for floral arrangements. Should you take off the foliage that will be below the water like you would with rose leaves?

The reason for removing all foliage that may be submerged is to avoid sludging up the water. The cleaner the water, the longer the flowers will last.