Pellaea

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At-A-Glance Information

This genus includes small to medium-sized ferns that do well with filtered sunlight. They have detailed foliage, and finely divided leaflets. These ferns can tolerate drier conditions than others, but all need well-draining soil.

Pellaea Species and Varietals

The best growing zones for Pellaea vary depending on the species. For more information, see the descriptions below. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.

Pellaea andromedifolia (Coffee Fern)
This species is native to dry, rocky areas of California, southern Oregon, and Baja California. These ferns reach 2 feet tall and wide, and have thin, wiry stems. Leaflets are shaped a little like coffee beans (hence the common name). These ferns prefer bright, filtered light and are wonderful in native landscapes and rock gardens. Water regularly in the first year, and then lessen.

Pellaea atropurpurea (Purple Stem Cliff-Brake)
Great in zones 2-7 and 14-17, this native of the northeastern US to Guatemala is cold-tolerant and reaches 1-2 feet tall and wide. It has arching fronds, and blue-grey leaflets. Midribs are purple-black, and the fern does best in bright shade and alkaline soil. Needs little water once mature. Great for rock gardens.

Pellaea rotundifolia (Button Fern)
Best in zones 14-17 and 19-24, this Australia and New Zealand native reaches 1-2 feet tall and 2 feet wide, with spreading stalks and rounded leaflets. Foliage is dark green and leathery. Great in mixed container plantings, where its foliage contrasts well against other ferns or flower foliage. Fronds will spill over the sides of pots. Needs regular water for best performance.

Pellaea viridis (Green Cliff-Brake)
Great in zones 14-17, 19-24 and H2, and native to India and Africa. Reaches about a foot tall and just as wide. Fronds are bright green and have black stems. Great with regular water, but can also tolerate periods of drought well. Use as a groundcover or among boulders in rock gardens. Also good in mixed container plantings.