Lemon Button Fern

If you’re looking for a houseplant that brings a touch of elegant, woodland charm without being fussy, look no further. The lemon button fern is a graceful and easy-care choice for any indoor space. Its name comes from the small, round leaflets that resemble buttons and have a subtle, lemony fragrance when brushed. This fern offers a softer, more manageable alternative to larger, sprawling fern varieties, making it perfect for shelves, desks, and small tables.

It’s a resilient plant that forgives the occasional missed watering, which is great for busy plant owners. With it’s delicate appearance and undemanding nature, the lemon button fern can thrive in many homes and offices. Let’s learn how to keep yours looking its best.

This charming fern, scientifically known as Nephrolepis cordifolia ‘Duffii’, is native to tropical and subtropical regions around the world. Unlike the Boston fern, its cousin, it stays compact, typically reaching about 12 inches in height and width. The fronds are a lovely light green and produce tiny “button” leaflets along a thin, graceful stem. It’s growth habit is tidy, and it rarely becomes the jungle that some other ferns can.

Ideal Light Conditions

Getting the light right is the key to a happy lemon button fern. It prefers bright, indirect light. Think of the dappled sunlight it would receive on a forest floor.

A spot near an east-facing window is often perfect.
A few feet back from a south or west window, shielded by a sheer curtain, also works well.
It can tolerate lower light, but its growth will slow and the fronds may become sparse.
Avoid direct, harsh sunlight, which will quickly scorch and yellow the delicate leaves.

Watering Your Fern Correctly

Consistent moisture is important, but “moist” does not mean “soaked.” Your goal is to mimic the consistently damp (not wet) soil of its natural habitat.

Check the soil frequently. When the top inch feels dry to the touch, it’s time to water.
Water thoroughly until it runs out the drainage holes, then empty the saucer underneath.
Reduce watering slightly in the winter when plant growth naturally slows.
If fronds turn yellow, you may be overwatering. If they become crispy or dry, you’re likely underwatering.

Humidity & Temperature Needs

As a tropical plant, it appreciates higher humidity. Average home humidity is often acceptable, but boosting it will lead to lusher growth.

Ideal humidity is between 50-60%.
Group it with other plants to create a humid microclimate.
Place its pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water (keep the pot above the water line).
Room temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C) are perfect. Avoid cold drafts and heating vents.

Soil and Fertilizer Basics

This fern needs a potting mix that retains moisture but also drains well to prevent root rot. A standard peat-based potting mix amended with perlite or orchid bark is a good choice. You can use a ready-made African violet or general potting mix too.

Feed your fern lightly during its active growing season (spring and summer).

Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (like a 10-10-10) diluted to half strength.
Fertilize once a month, no more.
Do not fertilize in the fall and winter when the plant is resting.
Over-fertilizing can damage the roots and cause brown leaf tips.

Pruning and Maintenance

Regular grooming keeps your fern looking tidy and encourages new growth. You only need a clean pair of scissors or pruning shears.

Regularly remove any fronds that have turned completely brown or yellow. Cut them off at the base.
Trim off any dry or crispy leaf tips, following the natural shape of the leaflet.
If a frond is looking sparse or leggy, you can cut the entire stem back to the soil line to make room for new growth.
Gently dust the fronds with a soft brush or rinse the plant in a lukewarm shower occasionally to keep pores clear.

Repotting Steps

Lemon button ferns have moderate growth and don’t need frequent repotting. Plan to repot every 2-3 years, or when you see roots growing out of the drainage holes.

Choose a new pot only 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. Too much soil stays wet and can cause rot.
Gently remove the plant from its old pot, teasing apart the roots slightly if they are tightly wound.
Place fresh potting mix in the bottom of the new pot, set the plant in, and fill around the sides.
Water well after repotting to help settle the soil. Keep the plant in a shady spot for a few days to recover.

Common Problems and Solutions

Even easy-care plants can have issues. Here’s how to troubleshoot common lemon button fern problems.

Brown, Crispy Leaf Tips: Usually a sign of low humidity or underwatering. Increase humidity and check your watering schedule.
Yellowing Fronds: Often caused by overwatering. Let the soil dry out a bit more between waterings.
Pale Leaves & Slow Growth: Likely needs more light. Move it to a brighter location (but not direct sun).
Pests: Watch for scale or spider mites. Wipe leaves with a damp cloth or use insecticidal soap.

Propagating Your Fern

The easiest way to propagate a lemon button fern is by division during repotting. This is a simple process that gives you new plants for free.

When you remove the plant for repotting, look for natural divisions in the root ball—separate clumps of fronds.
Using your hands or a clean knife, gently separate a section, ensuring it has both roots and fronds attached.
Pot this new division in its own container with fresh soil.
Water it and care for it as you would a mature plant, keeping it in a humid, shaded spot until new growth appears.

Styling with Lemon Button Ferns

Their compact size and soft texture make these ferns incredibly versatile in home decor. They add a touch of life without overwhelming a space. Try placing one on a bathroom windowsill where it will love the steam, or use it as a living centerpiece on a dining table. They look fantastic in hanging planters, allowing their arching fronds to cascade gently, or grouped together on a plant stand for a lush, layered effect.

FAQ About Lemon Button Ferns

Is a lemon button fern safe for pets?
Yes! The ASPCA lists this fern as non-toxic to both cats and dogs, making it a pet-friendly choice.

Why is my lemon button fern not smelling like lemon?
The fragrance is very subtle and is most noticeable when the leaves are brushed or crushed. Not every plant or person will detect it strongly.

Can I put my lemon button fern outside?
In the summer, you can place it in a shaded, sheltered spot outdoors. Always bring it back inside before nighttime temperatures drop below 60°F.

How often should I mist my fern?
Misting provides only a temporary boost in humidity. Using a pebble tray or a humidifier is a more effective long-term solution for maintaining the right moisture in the air.

What’s the difference between a lemon button fern and a regular button fern?
They are essentially the same plant. The “lemon” refers to the faint citrus scent its foliage can emit, so you might see it labeled either way.

With it’s forgiving nature and beautiful appearance, the lemon button fern is a wonderful plant for beginners and experienced gardeners alike. Paying attention to its simple needs for indirect light, consistent moisture, and a bit of humidity will reward you with a long-lived, graceful companion for your home. Remember, the most common issues come from to much love—overwatering or over-fertilizing. When in doubt, check the soil and adjust the light. Your fern will thank you with years of lush, green growth.