Pellaea rotundifolia, popularly known as button fern, is a botanical jewel from New Zealand and Australia that stands out for its elegant hanging appearance and the distinctive shape of its rounded fronds. dark and shiny green colorThis species is appreciated not only for its decorative beauty, but also for its adaptability to both domestic environments and shaded terrariums and gardens.
Su resilient nature and easy maintenance make it a perfect choice for those looking for a showy, low-maintenance plant that can thrive both indoors and outdoors (as long as we avoid extreme cold). If you're wondering what the benefits are, Key care tips for button fern and how to boost its health and attractiveness in your home or garden. Here you'll find the most detailed and comprehensive guide in Spanish.
Botanical characteristics of the button fern (Pellaea rotundifolia)
La Pellaea rotundifolia It is a perennial and evergreen fern that belongs to the family pteridaceae. It has a compact and arched growth. Its fronds usually measure between 25 and 30 centimeters high, 30-35 centimeters wide, although in optimal conditions it can reach up to 60 centimeters in diameter.
- Fronds: The plant develops long, arched fronds, formed by 10 to 20 rounded leaflets, leathery texture and slightly toothed marginIts intense dark green color and unique shape give it great ornamental value.
- Rhizome: It is rhizomatous, which means that its roots expand horizontally under the substrate, allowing it to multiply and resist transplantation.
- Domestic longevity: Under favorable conditions, it can live between 2 and 5 years indoors, although with good care it can greatly exceed this expectation.
- Spores: Like all ferns, it does not produce flowers but spores, visible on the underside of the leaflets when the plant is mature.
- Growth in terrariums: This species is especially valued for integrating terrariums in tropical and humid environments, standing out for its ease with which it adapts to closed spaces with artificial lighting.
Ideal location for the button fern
Success in growing Pellaea rotundifolia depends largely on its location. This plant prefers environments with lots of indirect light, but it can tolerate some shade. It's essential to avoid direct sunlight, especially during the middle of the day, as this can damage and burn its fronds.
- Interior: Place it in a bright room, near a window but always protected from direct sunlight. Avoid placing it next to appliances that generate drafts, such as air conditioners, heaters, or fans.
- Exterior: If you want to grow it in a garden or on a terrace, choose a semi-shaded area, such as under trees, pergolas, or on covered patios. The button fern is more resistant to dry environments than other ferns, but prefers moderately humid environments.
- Temperature: It grows best between 15ºC and 25ºC. If temperatures drop below 10ºC, it's best to keep it indoors.
- In terrariums: Due to its compact size and tolerance to indirect light, it is excellent for tropical terrariums.
The most suitable substrate for Pellaea rotundifolia
A light substrate, rich in organic matter and well drained It is essential for the proper development of this fern. Although it tolerates a certain pH range, it prefers slightly acidic soils (similar to most ferns), but doesn't require as much acidity or moisture as other species.
- Potted: Use a quality universal substrate enriched with peat, perlite, or coconut fiber to ensure drainage. Adding vermiculite or fine gravel improves aeration and prevents waterlogging.
- In the garden: If your garden soil is clayey or compact, dig a hole about 50 x 50 cm and fill it with the above mixture. If your substrate is sandy and rich in organic matter, you'll benefit from its improved drainage capacity.
- In terrariums or planters: It is advisable to combine sphagnum moss on the sides of the pot or terrarium to increase the ambient humidity.
Irrigation: frequency and tips to avoid problems
The button fern requires Regular watering, keeping the substrate moist but never waterloggedExcess water can cause root rot, while prolonged drought can cause frond drop and weaken the plant.
- Spring and summer: Water two to four times a week, always checking that the top layer of the substrate is not soaked before watering again.
- Autumn and winter: Reduce frequency to once a week, or even less if the environment is very cool and growth slows.
- Water type: Preferably use rain water, distilled or lime-free water, since excess salts can damage the roots and stain the leaves.
- Humidity: Although it's more resistant to dry environments than other ferns, it appreciates a medium level of humidity. You can place the pot on a tray of damp gravel, but avoid direct mist on the leaves to prevent fungus.
Fertilizing: How and when to feed Pellaea rotundifolia
During the active growing season (spring and summer) it is essential fertilize the plant every two or three weeks to promote the development of new fronds.
- Recommended fertilizer: Use liquid fertilizers specifically for green plants, diluted to half the recommended dosage to avoid excess nutrients. If you prefer organic products, alternatives such as worm castings or guano are excellent.
- Potted: Liquid fertilizers integrate better and promote nutrient absorption. Avoid granular or powdered fertilizers in small spaces, as they can be harsh.
- Time: Avoid fertilizing during dormant months (fall-winter) unless you notice active growth in very warm environments.
Pruning and cleaning fronds
The button fern does not require strict pruning, but It is highly recommended to remove dry or damaged fronds regularly. This stimulates the appearance of new leaves and keeps the plant looking healthy and ornamental.
- Corte: Use disinfected scissors and make the cut flush with the rhizome, avoiding leaving any diseased tissue.
- Frequency: Inspect the plant monthly for yellowing, dry, or spotted leaves.
Transplant: when and how to do it
If you grow your Pellaea in a pot, you should transplant it every 2-3 years, or sooner if you notice roots poking through the drainage holes. The best time to repot is in spring. If the plant fills the entire pot or has grown excessively, choose a slightly larger container and be sure to replace some of the potting soil.
- In the garden: Only transplant into the ground if you live in a region with a temperate climate and no incisive frosts.
Hardiness and climate tolerance
The button fern tolerates temperatures between 10 ºC and 30-35 ºC, although it is ideal to keep it within a range of 15 to 25 ºC. In the face of intense cold, it shows sensitivity and suffers damage when the thermometer drops below 10 ºC, so in these conditions it should be protected indoors.
As for heat, as long as it is watered more frequently and receives partial shade, it can withstand slightly higher temperatures for short periods.
Propagation of Pellaea rotundifolia
One of the great advantages of this fern is its ease of reproductionThere are two main methods:
- Division of bushes: This involves carefully separating the rhizome during spring transplanting. Each segment should have at least a pair of fronds and healthy roots. Plant the new specimens in separate pots and keep the substrate moist until they fully root.
- Rhizome division: Similar to the above, but using cuttings of the rhizome with shoots. This is ideal for accelerating multiplication in terrariums or pots.
Propagation from spores is not recommended for home cultivation, as it is more complex and time-consuming.
Common Problems and Solutions for Button Ferns
La Pellaea rotundifolia, although robust, can present certain difficulties if its basic care is not maintained.
- Yellow or dry fronds: It could be due to overwatering, drought, or salt buildup in the substrate. Adjust your watering frequency and consider changing the substrate if the problem persists.
- Loss of vigor: It is usually related to a lack of nutrients or a pot that is too small.
- Deformed leaves or spots: They indicate excessive humidity, lack of ventilation, or fungal infestation. Trim the affected leaves and improve ventilation.
Where to buy a button fern?
You can get your copy of Pellaea rotundifolia in specialty stores and online nurseries. Purchase from reliable sources, ensuring the plant has fronds. green, healthy and without signs of pests.
Get your copy by clicking here.
The button fern is a hardy, versatile ornamental species that adapts easily to different contexts, from indoors to gardens and terrariums. Its beauty lies in the shape and color of its fronds, and its easy multiplication ensures that you can always propagate it or share it with other plant enthusiasts. By following these guidelines and with a little attention, your Pellaea rotundifolia It will be a source of greenery and elegance for years in your space.
