Pellaea rotundifolia, the button fern, is a species of fern endemic to New Zealand, where it grows in scrub and forests. It is also a popular garden plant (in zones 8 and 9) and house plant, tolerating low temperatures but not freezing. Pellaea rotundifolia is a compact, evergreen fern that can have more than 30 pairs of round, dark-green, leathery pinnae on fronds up to 18 in (460 mm) in length. The Latin specific epithet rotundifolia means “round-leaved”.
Button fern typically shows good resistance to disease and attracts relatively few insect pests. The care level for Button fern is considered difficult because it needs a consistently moist environment and frequent watering. However, its roots can rot if overwatered and the surroundings are not well ventilated. Button fern is suited to people with some growing experience, and most people are able to keep it alive for a certain period. Nevertheless, Button fern may struggle to thrive and its leaves can dry out and become less healthy over time.
How to keep Hemionitis Rotundifolia.
Light
Button fern favors conditions like a partially shaded understory but can tolerate both increased exposure to sunlight and deeper shade. Coming from habitats with varying light levels, it copes well with different amounts of light. Excessive exposure can scorch the leaves, while persistent heavy shade can slow its growth.
Temperature
The button fern fern originates from tropical regions where temperatures range from 68 to 100 ℉ (20 to 38 ℃). It prefers warm conditions and can withstand light frost. In colder seasons, the plant should be placed in a warm, bright location with temperatures maintained around 68 to 75 ℉ (20 to 24 ℃).
Pot & Repot
When repotting Button fern, select a pot 1-2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) larger with good drainage. Use a well-draining potting mix. Repot in spring or fall, making sure the root ball sits slightly lower than the rim of the flower pot. Water thoroughly after repotting and place the plant in a warm spot with indirect sunlight.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Fern
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Hemionitis
- Family
- Pteridaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 9-11
- Mature Height
- 30 cm
- Mature Spread
- 10 cm to 49 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green, Brown
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Planting Time
- Spring
- Native Area
- New Zealand
Other names.
