Types of Button Fern Varieties: The Complete Guide

July 7, 2022 Cafe Planta Team

Button ferns are the cute, compact houseplant companions that many of us have come to adore. With their charming, round leaves and easy-going nature, they fit perfectly into homes of all sizes. But did you know there are several varieties of button ferns, each with its own unique flair? Let's explore these delightful plants and discover how you can make them thrive in your home.

In this article, we'll uncover the different types of button fern varieties, their care requirements, and how they can enhance your living space. Whether you're a seasoned plant parent or just starting your plant journey, there's something special about bringing a bit of nature indoors with these fascinating ferns.

Pellaea Rotundifolia: The Classic Button Fern

Let's kick things off with the classic button fern, scientifically known as Pellaea rotundifolia. This little beauty is native to New Zealand and is often the first variety people think of when they hear "button fern." Its small, rounded leaves grow along delicate, arching stems, creating a soft, cascading effect that works wonders in hanging baskets or perched on a shelf.

Care Tips for Pellaea Rotundifolia:

Light: These ferns prefer bright, indirect light, but they can tolerate lower light conditions. Just keep them out of direct sunlight, which can scorch their leaves.
Water: Button ferns like their soil to be consistently moist but not soggy. Let the top inch of soil dry out between waterings to avoid root rot.
Humidity: Like many ferns, they enjoy a bit of humidity. If your home is on the dry side, consider misting the plant or placing it near a humidifier.
Temperature: They thrive in temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C).

Interestingly enough, the classic button fern is quite forgiving, making it a great choice for those new to fern care. Its adaptability allows it to fit into various indoor environments, bringing a touch of greenery even to those less-than-ideal spots.

Pellaea Viridis: The Green Button Fern

Next up is the green button fern, or Pellaea viridis. This variety is similar to its classic cousin but boasts slightly larger leaves and a richer, deeper green color. The green button fern is native to South Africa, where it grows in well-drained soils, making it an excellent candidate for those looking to add a pop of green to their home.

Care Tips for Pellaea Viridis:

Light: Bright, indirect light is ideal. Like the classic button fern, keep it away from harsh, direct sunlight.
Water: Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. This variety appreciates a well-draining potting mix.
Humidity: Moderate humidity levels are sufficient, but a little extra moisture in the air can help keep its leaves lush.
Temperature: Comfortable room temperatures of 60-75°F (15-24°C) suit this fern well.

The green button fern is known for its slightly more elegant growth pattern, making it a favorite for those looking to create a verdant backdrop in their living spaces. Its subtle charm can be a wonderful complement to more vibrant plants, adding depth and texture to your plant collection.

Pellaea Glabella: The Smooth Button Fern

The smooth button fern, or Pellaea glabella, is a lesser-known variety that deserves a bit more attention. This species is native to North America and is characterized by its smooth, shiny leaves that grow in a neatly organized pattern. It's a great option for those who love the look of button ferns but want something a bit off the beaten path.

Care Tips for Pellaea Glabella:

Light: Prefers partial shade to bright, indirect light.
Water: Keep the soil evenly moist, but be cautious not to overwater. Letting the soil dry out slightly between waterings is beneficial.
Humidity: This variety is less fussy about humidity, making it suitable for average home conditions.
Temperature: Enjoys temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C).

The smooth button fern's unique appearance makes it an intriguing addition to any plant collection. Its glossy leaves catch the light beautifully, adding a touch of shine and elegance to your indoor jungle.

Pellaea Ovata: The Oval Leaf Button Fern

For something a bit different, consider the oval leaf button fern, or Pellaea ovata. As the name suggests, this variety features slightly elongated, oval-shaped leaves that give it a distinct look compared to the classic round-leaf button ferns. Native to Mexico and parts of the southern United States, it thrives in rocky, well-drained environments.

Care Tips for Pellaea Ovata:

Light: Enjoys bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct morning or late afternoon sun.
Water: Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. It's more drought-tolerant compared to other button ferns.
Humidity: Prefers moderate humidity but can adapt to lower humidity levels.
Temperature: Thrives in warmer temperatures, ideally between 65-80°F (18-27°C).

This fern's unique leaf shape and robust nature make it a standout choice for plant lovers looking to diversify their fern collection. Its adaptability to various light and humidity conditions makes it a practical yet stylish choice for brightening up any room.

Pellaea Atropurpurea: The Purple-Stem Button Fern

If you're someone who loves a touch of color, the purple-stem button fern, or Pellaea atropurpurea, might be just what you need. This variety is known for its striking purple stems that contrast beautifully with its green leaves. Native to rocky cliffs and hillsides in North America, this fern is as tough as it is beautiful.

Care Tips for Pellaea Atropurpurea:

Light: Prefers bright, indirect light but can handle some direct sun.
Water: Keep the soil slightly moist, allowing it to dry out between waterings.
Humidity: Moderate humidity is beneficial, but it's quite tolerant of average home conditions.
Temperature: Does well in a range of temperatures, from 60-80°F (15-27°C).

The purple-stem button fern is an excellent choice for those wanting to add a touch of drama to their plant displays. Its vibrant stems add a splash of color that can break up the monotony of green in a plant collection, making it a delightful focal point in any room.

Pellaea Ternifolia: The Mexican Cliff Fern

The Mexican cliff fern, or Pellaea ternifolia, is another intriguing variety that brings a bit of the wild into your home. Known for its triangular, three-part leaves, this fern has a unique silhouette that can add a hint of whimsy to your plant arrangement. It's native to rocky areas in Mexico and the southwestern United States, where it thrives in well-drained soils.

Care Tips for Pellaea Ternifolia:

Light: Does best in bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sun.
Water: Let the soil dry out between waterings, as it's more drought-tolerant than other ferns.
Humidity: Prefers moderate humidity but is quite adaptable.
Temperature: Thrives in a range of temperatures, ideally between 65-80°F (18-27°C).

The Mexican cliff fern's distinct shape and hardy nature make it a fascinating addition to any plant collection. Its adaptability to various growing conditions makes it an attractive option for those looking to experiment with different fern varieties.

Pellaea Breweri: The Brewer's Cliff Fern

Last, but certainly not least, we have the Brewer's cliff fern, or Pellaea breweri. This variety is native to the mountainous regions of California and Oregon, where it grows in rocky, well-drained areas. Its small, delicate leaves grow in tight clusters, creating a dense, bushy appearance that adds texture and interest to your indoor garden.

Care Tips for Pellaea Breweri:

Light: Prefers bright, indirect light but can handle some direct sun.
Water: Allow the soil to dry out between waterings, as it's more drought-tolerant than other button ferns.
Humidity: Moderate humidity is ideal, but it can adapt to lower levels.
Temperature: Enjoys temperatures between 60-80°F (15-27°C).

The Brewer's cliff fern's compact growth habit makes it an excellent choice for small spaces or for adding layers to your plant displays. Its resilience and unique appearance make it a standout option for plant lovers looking to add a touch of the wild to their home.

Design Tips: Incorporating Button Ferns into Your Home

Now that we've explored the various button fern varieties, you might be wondering how to incorporate these charming plants into your home decor. Here are some creative ideas to get you started:

Hanging Baskets: Button ferns look stunning in hanging baskets, where their cascading fronds can be fully appreciated. Hang them in a well-lit corner of your living room or kitchen for a touch of greenery.
Shelf Displays: Arrange different varieties of button ferns on a shelf, mixing them with other plants to create a lush, layered look. Use pots of varying heights and textures for added interest.
Terrariums: Button ferns thrive in humid environments, making them ideal candidates for terrariums. Create a miniature indoor garden by combining them with moss, small stones, and other humidity-loving plants.
Table Centerpieces: Use a single button fern in a decorative pot as a centerpiece for your dining or coffee table. Its compact size won't overwhelm the space, and its unique texture will draw the eye.

Whether you're going for a minimalist aesthetic or a jungle-inspired vibe, button ferns can be versatile additions to your home. Their compact size and varied appearances make them perfect for adding greenery to any space, no matter how big or small.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

As with any plant, button ferns can encounter a few common issues. Here's how to troubleshoot and keep your ferns looking their best:

Yellowing Leaves: This could be a sign of overwatering. Check the soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
Browning Leaf Edges: Often caused by low humidity or underwatering. Increase humidity by misting the plant or placing it on a pebble tray with water.
Pests: Button ferns can occasionally attract pests like spider mites or aphids. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil, and keep your plant isolated until the issue is resolved.
Slow Growth: If your fern isn't growing as expected, it might need more light or nutrients. Consider moving it to a brighter location or fertilizing with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every few months.

Keeping an eye on your ferns and addressing any issues promptly will ensure they thrive. Remember, plants are like people—they each have their own quirks and preferences, so a little patience and observation can go a long way.

Propagation: Growing Your Button Fern Collection

Once you've fallen in love with your button ferns, you might want to try your hand at propagation to expand your collection or share the love with friends. Here's a simple method for propagating button ferns:

Choose a Healthy Parent Plant: Look for a mature fern with plenty of healthy leaves and strong growth.
Divide the Root Ball: Carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently separate the root ball into smaller sections. Each section should have a few leaves and roots.
Repot the Divisions: Plant each division in a pot with fresh potting mix, ensuring the roots are covered and the plant is stable.
Water and Care: Water the newly potted ferns thoroughly and place them in a bright, indirect light. Keep the soil moist as they establish themselves.

Propagation is a rewarding way to multiply your plant collection and share your love of ferns with others. Plus, it's a great opportunity to learn more about how your plants grow and develop over time.

Final Thoughts

Button ferns are a delightful addition to any home, offering a variety of shapes, colors, and textures to suit every taste. From the classic Pellaea rotundifolia to the striking Pellaea atropurpurea, there's a button fern for everyone. With the right care and a bit of creativity, these charming plants can bring a touch of nature and tranquility to your living space.

At Cafe Planta, we're passionate about helping you grow your love for plants. We offer a wide range of houseplants, plant care accessories, and even plant-themed apparel. If you have any questions or need advice on plant care, feel free to reach out to us via email or drop us a message on Instagram. Let's make your home a beautiful, thriving plant haven together!

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