Button Fern

Pellaea rotundifolia

houseplant

verifiedReviewed by the GreenScout Team

A compact, low-growing fern from New Zealand featuring small, dark green, rounded leaflets resembling buttons along wiry stems. It is more drought-tolerant than most ferns and works well in terrariums, hanging baskets, or as ground cover in plant arrangements. Button ferns prefer cooler indoor temperatures.

Common Problems

Select the problem your Button Fern is experiencing to get a treatment guide.

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Brown Tipschevron_right

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Overwateringchevron_right

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Root Rotchevron_right

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Pale Leaveschevron_right

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Slow Growthchevron_right

Care Guide

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Light

Bright, indirect light; tolerates partial shade; avoid direct sun which can fade frond color

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Water

Keep soil lightly moist; allow surface to dry between waterings; do not overwater; reduce watering in winter

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Soil

Well-draining potting mix; add perlite or sand to improve drainage and prevent waterlogging

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Fertiliser

Apply diluted balanced fertilizer monthly during growing season; reduce or skip in winter months

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Temperature

Prefers 60–70°F (15–21°C); tolerates cooler conditions; avoid heat above 75°F (24°C) and cold below 50°F (10°C)

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Humidity

Prefers 40–60% humidity; more drought-tolerant than other ferns; mist occasionally if air is very dry

Toxicity

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Non-toxic; completely safe for cats, dogs, and children

Common Diseases

filter_dramaRoot Rotchevron_right grainLeaf Spotchevron_right

Common Pests

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Seasonal Care

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Resume regular watering and feeding as growth picks up.

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Peak growing season. Water and feed regularly.

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Reduce watering as growth slows. Stop heavy feeding.

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Minimal watering and feeding. Protect from frost if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Button Fern more forgiving of missed waterings than other ferns?

Yes — it's more drought-tolerant than most ferns thanks to its wiry stems and rounded leaflets, but it still prefers the soil to stay lightly moist rather than bone dry for extended periods.

Why does my Button Fern prefer a cooler room than my other houseplants?

Native to cooler regions of New Zealand, it does best around 60–70°F and can struggle with heat stress above 75°F. Keep it away from heating vents and hot, sunny windowsills.