Nephrolepis cordifolia 'Duffii' – Compact, Pet-Safe Lemon Button Fern
Nephrolepis cordifolia (L.) C.Presl 'Duffii', also known as Lemon Button Fern, is a small, arching fern valued for its round, button-like leaflets and dense, tidy growth. Ideal for terrariums, desks, or bright bathrooms, this cultivar thrives indoors with minimal fuss. Unlike many ferns, it adapts to average home humidity and tolerates lower light, making it a great choice for beginners. Bonus: it’s non-toxic and pet-safe.
Highlights of Nephrolepis cordifolia 'Duffii'
- Size: Compact growth up to 30 cm tall and wide
- Leaf Shape: Button-shaped, slightly leathery pinnae on arching fronds
- Growth Habit: Bushy and cascading, with underground rhizomes
- Adaptability: Tolerates average indoor humidity better than most ferns
- Non-Toxic: Safe for cats, dogs, and humans
Natural Habitat and Botanical Background
- Origin: Tropical and subtropical Asia, Australia, and Pacific Islands
- Habitat: Moist forest floors, often growing as groundcover or lithophyte
- Taxonomy: Nephrolepis cordifolia (L.) C.Presl, basionym Polypodium cordifolium L., published in 1836
How to Care for Nephrolepis cordifolia 'Duffii'
Light
- Thrives in bright, indirect light
- Can tolerate lower light but may grow slower
- Avoid direct sunlight to prevent frond scorch
Water
- Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy
- Water when top 1–2 cm of soil feels dry
- Use filtered or rainwater to prevent mineral buildup
Humidity and Temperature
- Humidity: Ideal at 50–70%; tolerates average indoor levels
- Temperature: Best between 18–26 °C; avoid cold drafts
Soil and Repotting
- Use a well-draining mix with peat, pine bark, and perlite
- Repot every 1–2 years in spring
- Choose a shallow pot with drainage holes
Feeding
- Apply a diluted liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks in growing season
- Skip fertilizing in winter
Propagation
- Best by division during repotting
- Spore propagation is possible but slow
Semi-Hydro Compatibility
- Can adapt to LECA or semi-hydroponic setups with proper care
Common Problems and Fixes
- Browning Tips: Usually from low humidity or hard water—adjust environment and water source
- Yellow Leaves: Overwatering or nutrient deficiency—check watering and fertilize accordingly
- Pests: Occasional mealybugs or spider mites—treat with neem or insecticidal soap
- Root Rot: Prevent with proper drainage and avoiding waterlogged soil
Additional Notes
- No staking required—naturally arching form
- Perfect for terrariums, hanging planters, or shelf edges
- Excellent in kitchens or bathrooms with moderate light
Etymology
- Nephrolepis: Greek for "kidney scale," referencing leaf shape
- cordifolia: Latin for "heart-leaved," referring to underground bulbils
Order Nephrolepis cordifolia 'Duffii' Today
Add the lush, pet-safe beauty of Lemon Button Fern to your indoor jungle. Order now and enjoy its compact greenery year-round!
Nephrolepis cordifolia 'Duffii'
€5.50Price
VAT Included
Nephrolepis cordifolia 'Duffii' comes in following sizes:
Baby Plant – is approximately 15 cm tall and comes in a ⌀ 6 cm pot
L – is approximately 50 cm tall and comes in a ⌀ 17 cm pot
