Button Fern

bright indirect light (3-6 feet from a south or west window, or right next to an east window. Under a grow light, 6-10 inches away works well) is ideal. Will adapt to lower light levels thanks to its dark, chlorophyll-rich leaves, but growth slows noticeably. Avoid direct sun (right in the window where sun actually hits the leaves. A strong grow light 4-6 inches away can substitute), which scorches the leaflets.

moderate humidity (40-60%. Most homes are fine, but a pebble tray helps in winter when heating dries the air out) around 50% is ideal. Does not need the high humidity (60-80%. Group your plants together, set them on a pebble tray with water, or run a humidifier nearby) that most ferns demand, which is a major reason it works well as a houseplant. A pebble tray or room humidifier helps in dry winter months.

Good quality potting mix with added perlite or coarse sand for drainage. Slightly acidic pH preferred.

Yellowing and rotting rhizomes signal overwatering. Brown leaf tips usually mean the temperature is too high or the air is too dry. Mealybugs and aphids are the most common pests; spider mites appear in dry conditions. Sensitive to tap water minerals over time.