Button Fern / New Zealand Button Fern
Pellaea rotundifolia
description
Button Fern is a compact fern with small round leaflets along dark wiry stems.
benefits
- Low—light tolerant
- Pet-friendly, non-toxic to animals
- Suitable for containers
How to care for Button Fern
sunlight
In New Zealand, Button Fern grows in sheltered, filtered light rather than open sun. Give it a bright spot with softened light indoors.
Bright indirect light
Place near an east or north-facing window, or a few feet back from a brighter window. This supports compact, healthy fronds without overheating the foliage.
Medium indirect light
It tolerates a moderately lit room, but growth will be slower. Move it closer to the window if new fronds are sparse or stretched.
watering
Let the potting mix dry slightly between waterings. Button Fern is less thirsty than many ferns and is more likely to suffer from constantly wet soil than a short dry spell.
Spring to early autumn
Water thoroughly about every 7-10 days in bright, warm conditions, letting excess drain away. Check first: water when the top 1-2 inches of mix feel dry and the pot is noticeably lighter.
Winter and low light
Growth slows in cooler, dimmer months, so watering may be needed only every 2-3 weeks. Let more of the mix dry, but do not leave the root ball bone dry for long.
These timings are starting points. A small terracotta pot, warm room, or airy mix dries faster, while low light, a large pot, and dense soil keep moisture longer.
humidity
Preferred humidity
Native to New Zealand’s relatively dry, sheltered forest and rocky habitats, Button Fern is more forgiving of average home air than many ferns. It is usually comfortable at 35-60% humidity, but appreciates a little extra moisture when heating or air conditioning is running.
How to increase humidity
- Group it with other plants or use a small humidifier nearby.
- Keep it away from radiators, heating vents, and strong air conditioning.
- Use a pebble tray with water beneath the pot, keeping the pot above the waterline.
temperature
Preferred temperature
Winter minimum
Native to New Zealand, Button Fern prefers mild, steady indoor temperatures. Keep it away from hot radiators and air conditioning, which can dry and stress the fronds.
nutrition
March - August
Feed about once a month while new fronds are appearing, using a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength. Do not feed in autumn and winter unless the fern is still growing actively in warm, bright conditions, then feed no more than every 6-8 weeks.
Nitrogen
Nitrogen supports the Button Fern's fresh green fronds. A gentle, regular dose of balanced fertilizer is enough, as heavy feeding can scorch its fine roots.
soil
Light, humus-rich, free-draining soil
Button Fern has fine roots that dislike sitting wet, but it also dries out faster than many ferns. Use a quality indoor potting mix loosened with perlite or pumice and a little fine bark, so it holds some moisture while excess water drains freely.
pH 6,0 - 7,0
This is slightly acidic to neutral. Most standard houseplant mixes are suitable. Avoid strongly acidic mixes made for acid-loving plants, and refresh compacted soil when repotting.