Phlebodium aureum

The blue star fern is in the polypody family (Polypodiaceae), native to the American tropics and is commonly grown as a houseplant. It is an herbaceous perennial, rhizomatous epiphyte, spreading by its creeping rhizomes that are densely covered in golden scales. The species epithet is Latin for “golden” and references the color of the scales on the rhizome.

Cultural conditions should mimic the natural conditions this plant experiences in the wild. Ideal growing conditions include partial sun, medium to high humidity, good air circulation and a moist but not soggy substrate. It needs a loose, organic substrate with an acid pH. It tolerates drying out between waterings. It is often grown in a hanging basket, which gives excellent air circulation and shows off the fuzzy, golden rhizomes.

The fronds are large and deeply lobed, from 12 to 50 inches long and 4 to 20 inches wide. The evergreen fronds vary in color from bright green to blue-green or gray-green in some cultivars. They have undulate margins. Spore sori are round and run along each side of the pinna midrib. 

This fern can be used as a houseplant or in containers outside or in woodlands or shade gardens. 

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Monitor for spider mites, thrips, Florida fern caterpillar, and fungus gnats. Potential diseases include crown rot and root rot. Browning of fronds usually indicates that the plant needs higher humidity while curling is a common symptom of low humidity and underwatering.

VIDEO Created by NC State Extension's Homegrown series featuring Mark Weathington, Director of JC Raulston Arboretum.