Button fern facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Button fern |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Scientific classification | |
| Synonyms | |
|
The button fern, also known by its scientific name Pellaea rotundifolia, is a special type of fern. It is only found naturally in New Zealand, where it grows in wild areas like scrublands and forests. This fern is also very popular around the world as a garden plant and a house plant. It can handle cool temperatures, but it doesn't like to freeze.
The button fern is a neat and tidy evergreen fern. This means its leaves stay green all year round. It has many pairs of small, round, dark-green leaves, called pinnae. These leaves feel a bit leathery. The fronds (the fern's "branches") can grow up to 18 in (460 mm) long. Its scientific name, rotundifolia, comes from Latin words meaning "round-leaved," which perfectly describes its unique look!
-
Underside of the pinnae
-
In cultivation
Growing the Button Fern
If you want to grow a button fern, it's good to know what it likes. This fern needs soil that is a bit acidic and drains water well. Unlike many other ferns that love lots of moisture and humidity, the button fern prefers drier conditions. This means you don't need to water it too often.
This plant is so well-behaved and attractive that it has won an important award. The Royal Horticultural Society gave it their Award of Garden Merit. This award means it's a great plant for gardens and easy to grow.
