Lemon Button Fern
Nephrolepis cordifolia 'Duffii'
The Lemon Button Fern is a dwarf sword fern with small, round leaflets and a faint lemony scent when handled. Compact and forgiving, it's one of the easiest ferns for desks, terrariums, and bathrooms.
- Light
- Bright indirect light
- Water
- Keep evenly moist
- Difficulty
- Easy
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Overview
Lemon Button Fern is a miniature cultivar of Nephrolepis cordifolia, distinguished by its small, coin-shaped leaflets and a subtle citrus aroma released when the fronds are brushed or crushed.
It stays compact — usually under a foot tall — and is among the most beginner-friendly ferns. Its tidy form and tolerance of typical indoor conditions make it a popular choice for small spaces and humid rooms.
How to identify it
Spot the Lemon Button Fern by:
- Leaflets: small, rounded, button-like, bright to medium green, neatly arranged along the frond
- Fronds: arching, typically 6-12 inches long
- Scent: a faint lemon fragrance when leaves are rubbed
- Habit: compact, mounding clump
- New growth: emerges with a slightly golden-green tint
Care & growing
Light: Bright, indirect light; tolerates moderate light.
Water: Keep the soil evenly moist; do not let it dry out completely.
Soil: Rich, well-draining potting mix that retains some moisture.
Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C); keep away from cold drafts.
Humidity: Appreciates higher humidity but tolerates average household air better than many ferns.
Feeding: Diluted balanced fertilizer monthly during spring and summer.
Propagation: Divide the clump in spring.
Habitat & origin
The parent species, Nephrolepis cordifolia, is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia and Australasia, growing in warm, humid forests and along stream banks.
The 'Duffii' cultivar is grown worldwide as a houseplant. It thrives in terrariums and humid spaces like bathrooms and kitchens.
Frequently asked questions
Why is it called a Lemon Button Fern?
The 'button' refers to its round, coin-shaped leaflets, and 'lemon' comes from the faint citrus scent released when the fronds are touched.
Can I grow it in a terrarium?
Yes. Its small size and love of humidity make it an excellent terrarium fern.
Why are the fronds turning brown and crispy?
Crispy fronds usually mean the soil dried out or humidity is too low. Keep the soil evenly moist and raise humidity around the plant.
Lemon Button Fern guides
In-depth guides for identifying, growing, and caring for Lemon Button Fern.
