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Description
Pellaea ovata, also known as the button fern, is a species of fern that is native to the western United States. It is a small fern that typically grows to a height of 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 cm) and a spread of 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 cm). The button fern gets its name from the button-like shape of its leaflets, which are oval and slightly flattened with a shiny, dark green color on the top and a lighter green underside. Pellaea ovata is a great choice for indoor gardening or landscaping due to its low maintenance requirements and attractive appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Pteridopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Pteridaceae |
| Genus | Pellaea |
| Species | Pellaea ovata |
Appearance
The button fern has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other fern species. Its leaflets are oval-shaped and slightly flattened, giving them a button-like appearance. The leaflets are arranged in pairs along the stem, with each pair being perpendicular to the previous pair. The button fern has a shiny, dark green color on the top of its leaflets and a lighter green underside. The fronds of the button fern grow from a central rosette and are typically 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 cm) in height with a spread of 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 cm).
Care Guide
Pellaea ovata is a low-maintenance fern that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your button fern healthy:
- Water: The button fern prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought. Water your fern when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your button fern once a month during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
- Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter. The button fern prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5.
- Sunlight: The button fern prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: Pellaea ovata is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The button fern is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can still be affected by a few common issues. Here are some problems to watch out for:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Use an insecticidal soap to control them.
- Scale insects: These pests appear as small, raised bumps on the leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown, circular spots on the leaves. Remove affected leaves and improve air circulation to prevent further spread.
Habitat
Pellaea ovata is native to the western United States, where it grows in rocky areas, on cliffs, and in crevices. It prefers well-draining soil and is often found in areas with low rainfall. The button fern is also commonly grown as a houseplant or in outdoor landscaping due to its low maintenance requirements and attractive appearance.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Pellaea ovata be grown outdoors?
A: Yes, Pellaea ovata can be grown outdoors in USDA zones 9 to 11. It prefers well-draining soil and bright, indirect light.
Q: How often should I water my button fern?
A: Water your button fern when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot.
Q: Can I propagate Pellaea ovata?
A: Yes, Pellaea ovata can be propagated by spores or by division. To propagate by spores, collect the spores from the underside of the fronds and sow them in a well-draining soil mix. To propagate by division, separate the plant at the roots and plant in a new pot.
Q: How tall does Pellaea ovata typically grow?
A: Pellaea ovata typically grows to a height of 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 cm) and a spread of 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 cm).
Related Plants
- Pellaea rotundifolia
- Pellaea mucronata
- Pellaea andromedifolia
- Pellaea ternifolia
References
- “Pellaea ovata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 8, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b768.
- “Button Fern.” Costa Farms. Accessed September 8, 2021. https://www.costafarms.com/plants/button-fern.
- “Pellaea ovata.” Gardenia. Accessed September 8, 2021. https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/pellaea-ovata-button-fern.
