Cliffbrake Hemionitis rotundifolia

Button fern is a compact, evergreen, herbaceous perennial ferm in the ribbon-fern family (Pteridaceae). It is native to New Zealand. The species epithet is Latin meaning “round leaves” and refers to the shape of the leaflets. 

This fern does well outdoors in warm climates or as a houseplant in areas north of USDA Zone 9. It grows well in partial shade. Button fern grows best in filtered shade with regular water, although it does have some tolerance for sunny and shady conditions. Situate the plant where it will be protected from strong winds. Button fern can tolerate clay, loam or sandy soils. The pot or outdoor soil should have good drainage. It does not require humid conditions preferred by most other ferns. It is winter hardy in zone 9 or warmer and can survive a 25°F winter chill, but it will not do well with extended periods of below-freezing weather.  Indoors, it is best grown in indirect or subdued light and an acidic, humus-rich, peaty potting mix with good drainage. Propagate by divisions of the rhizome.

In its native habitat, it is often found on cliffs, in rocky crevices and moist forests. It has decorative, arching fronds that will mature to a height of 1 foot and are covered with glossy, deep green leaflets. The leaf stalks will turn a dark red as the plant ages. 

In warm locations, button ferns can grow outside in rock gardens or crevices in walls and terraces. In cooler climates, they must be grown as a conservatory plant or houseplant.

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems: No known diseases or insect pests.

VIDEO Created by NC State Extension's Homegrown series featuring Mark Weathington, Director of JC Raulston Arboretum.