Lemon Button Fern (Nephrolepis 'Duffii')

Lemon Button Fern

Nephrolepis 'Duffii'

Its tiny fronds smell faintly of citrus, a compact, cheerful groundcover. Evergreen fern; common name: Lemon Button Fern.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Bright indirect light; avoid direct midday sun which can scorch delicate fronds
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Watering Water when the top 2 cm of soil feels dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Thrives at 15–24℃; protect from temperatures below 10℃ to prevent leaf browning
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Characteristics

  • Frond: Tiny, rounded button-like leaflets on arching wiry fronds; emits faint citrus scent when crushed
  • Rhizome: Creeping scaly underground rhizomes forming dense clumps
  • Sori: Small round spore clusters on underside of mature leaflets
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged

Fertilization

Diluted balanced feed once every 2 months. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent brown, crispy frond tips

Eggshell powder top-dress:Sprinkle a thin layer of crushed, dried eggshells on top of soil; gently work into the top 1 cm to avoid disturbing shallow roots
Pruning
  • Trim browned frond tips with clean sharp scissors to maintain neat appearance
  • Remove fully browned, dead fronds at the base to improve airflow and reduce pest risk
  • Divide overcrowded clumps in early spring to propagate new plants
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic; no harmful effects from ingestion or contact

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental terrarium plant; shaded outdoor groundcover in warm climates