Phlebodium Aureum 'Blue Star'
As we move into a new year, why not celebrate by choosing a fern as our Plant of the Month? If anyone knows about the passing of time, it's these guys!
The powder on the ‘Blue Star’ fern’s leaves, which gives it its blue hue, is similar in function to sunscreen. This powder helps block high-light from scorching the leaves, as it often grows on other plants and receives brighter light than terrestrial ferns.
You can remove this powder from the leaves if it's in a lower light area, but then you miss out on the beautiful dusty green blue colour this fern produces.
Phlebodium aureum is an epiphyte which grows from rhizomes that creep along the soil surface and over other plants, pushing both roots down and leaves out as it spreads. Found growing in the tropical and subtropical regions of Central America and the northern parts of South America, this fern likes a lot of bright light and can even tolerate some gentle direct light.
If you want it to thrive, we suggest avoiding placing it near radiators, draughts, and heating or cooling systems, as it prefers humidity. You do not need to worry about it crisping up if you blink like some ferns. Due to its epiphytic nature, the ‘Blue Star’ is happy with a little dry period. Although we would not recommend letting the whole pot dry out between waterings, it is forgiving and easy to get back on track if you forget.
