Fern
Button Fern
Pellaea rotundifolia
Traits
Varieties We Carry
StandardPellaea rotundifolia
Sizes & Pricing
4 inFrom$7.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Mar 11.
LightPart Shade
WaterLow to Moderate
Mature size0.5-1 feet × 0.5-1 feet
About Button Fern
Pellaea rotundifolia, button fern, is a compact New Zealand fern with wiry, arching fronds bearing rows of small, rounded, dark green leaflets. A popular terrarium and indoor plant, it is distinguished by its neat, button-like pinnae and more drought-tolerant nature compared to most ferns. Starting at $7.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Non-flowering
- Flower Color
- Non-flowering
- Growth Rate
- Slow
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- Loam, Acidic, Well-drained
Best planting months
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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This monthGood windowOther months
Seasonal care
Good planting window.
Active growing season.
Ideal planting window.
Retains foliage through winter.
Care essentials
Light
Grow in bright indirect light or dappled shade; avoid prolonged direct sun, which scorches the delicate fronds. In NE Florida, a shaded patio, north-facing bed, or understory position is ideal. Unlike most ferns, it tolerates lower humidity.
Water
More drought-tolerant than typical ferns — allow the top inch of soil to dry between waterings. Overwatering or soggy soil causes rapid decline. In Florida's humid climate, ensure excellent drainage and avoid overhead irrigation that keeps foliage persistently wet.
Soil & Fertilizer
Use a well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix (pH 5.0–6.0) with added perlite. Feed monthly during the growing season with a dilute balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength. Button fern is best treated as a container or indoor plant in NE Florida.
Similar needs
Autumn Fern
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Blue Star Fern
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Boston Fern
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Holly Fern
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Kangaroo Fern
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Kimberly Queen Fern
Shares 4 of the same needs: shade, moderate water, loam, and zone 9a hardiness.
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Common questions
Is Button Fern a good plant for St. Augustine?
Button Fern is a fern for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 0.5-1 feet × 0.5-1 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed March 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.