Button Fern (Pellaea rotundifolia)

Button Fern

Pellaea rotundifolia

Round, leathery fronds unfurl like tiny green buttons. Evergreen fern; common name: 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, tolerates low indoor light conditions
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Watering Water when the top 2 cm of soil dries completely; avoid standing water to prevent root rot
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Temperature Thrives in 15–22°C; protect from temperatures below 10°C to prevent frond damage
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Characteristics

  • Frond: Round, leathery dark green leaflets arranged along wiry reddish-brown stalks
  • Rhizome: Short, creeping underground stem forming tight clumps
  • Spores: Linear sori produced on undersides of mature leaflets
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged

Fertilization

Diluted balanced feed every 6 weeks. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent leaf burn

Banana peel tea:Steep 1 peeled banana in 1L water for 24 hours; dilute 1:2 before applying to soil to avoid nutrient buildup
Pruning
  • Trim brown, dead fronds at the base to maintain a tidy clump
  • Remove yellowing fronds to improve air circulation and reduce pest risk
  • Divide overcrowded clumps in spring for propagation and to refresh soil
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic; no harmful effects if ingested

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

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental indoor fern for terrariums, hanging baskets, and desktop displays