Button Fern
Pellaea rotundifolia
Traits
Varieties We Bring In
Last received Mar 11, 2026.
We bring this in seasonally, so what is on the lot changes week to week. A received date shows when it last came in, not that it is here today.
Call (904) 471-0440 to confirm this plant and size before you make the trip.
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
Seasonal care
Good planting window.
Active growing season.
Ideal planting window.
Retains foliage through winter.
Care essentials
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.
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.
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
Shares 4 of the same needs: shade, moderate water, loam, and zone 9a hardiness.
Blue Star Fern
Shares 4 of the same needs: shade, moderate water, loam, and zone 9a hardiness.
Boston Fern
Shares 4 of the same needs: shade, moderate water, loam, and zone 9a hardiness.
Holly Fern
Shares 4 of the same needs: shade, moderate water, loam, and zone 9a hardiness.
Kangaroo Fern
Shares 4 of the same needs: shade, moderate water, loam, and zone 9a hardiness.
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.