Phlebodium Aureum, the Blue Star Fern. An epiphytic plant from the Tropical Rainforests of South America, where they would grow on trees in nooks and crannies in the tree canopy, in dappled shade and high humidity. An interesting, and unusual fern with long, subtle blue / green fronds. An ideal houseplant for a kitchen or bathroom.
For best results try to mimic it`s natural habitat. Place in a shady to bright spot, out of any direct sun. As mentioned they do prefer high humidity, so a kitchen or bathrooms steamy air is great. Alternatively if you regularly mist, or keep your fern on a pebble tray to increase humidity, anywhere in the home should be fine. Very tolerant when it comes to temperature, average room temperature is fine. As long as the compost is very free draining you can water your plant freely, as it will not become waterlogged. Prefers to be watered from the sides of the pot and not directly in to the heart of the plant. Avoid any sitting water.
Minimum Temp: 10c
As with other epiphytes, plants that live on other plants, Phlebodium doesn`t need re-potting very often, as they generally grow in a space that doesn`t allow the roots to spread too far. If your plant is completely pot bound and suffering from yellowing leaves then you can re-pot in Spring to a slightly larger pot, making sure to use a very free draining compost. Bark based Orchid compost is ideal.
Warnings: Not known to be toxic.
