Blue Star Fern
Phlebodium aureum
The Blue Star Fern is a striking epiphytic fern known for its deeply lobed, glaucous blue-green fronds that offer a cool, metallic look. Unlike many ferns that grow from a central crown, this species features thick, creeping rhizomes covered in soft, golden-brown fur, giving it the nickname 'Rabbit's Foot Fern' in some circles. Give it bright, indirect light, higher humidity, and steady moisture in a planter with drainage holes.
Light
Bright Indirect
Water
Moderate
Difficulty
Moderate
Humidity
High
Pet Friendly
Phlebodium aureum is non-toxic to cats and dogs, making it a safe choice for pet-friendly households.
Care Notes
Light
This fern prefers bright, indirect light. Exposure to direct sunlight can scorch the delicate blue-green foliage, while too little light may cause the fronds to lose their bright color and turn a dull green.
Water
Keep the soil consistently moist but not saturated. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. It is best to water around the edges of the pot. Avoid pouring water directly onto the fuzzy rhizomes to prevent crown rot.
Humidity and Temperature
& Temperature
As a tropical epiphyte, it thrives in high humidity (50%+). It is an ideal plant for a bright bathroom or a kitchen. Maintain temperatures between 60°F and 80°F (15°C - 27°C) and protect it from cold drafts.
Soil and Planter
Use a well-aerated, fast-draining potting mix. A combination of orchid bark, perlite, and peat moss or coco coir is ideal to mimic its natural growth on tree branches.
Maintenance
Regularly remove any browned or yellowed fronds at the base to keep the plant tidy. Ensure the fuzzy rhizomes are allowed to crawl across the surface of the soil rather than being buried deep within it.
Common Issues
Brown edges often point to dry soil or low humidity. Yellowing can follow waterlogged soil, so check moisture and drainage before watering again.
In-Depth Care & Growth
Feeding & Soil
Fertilizer
Balanced liquid fertilizer
Soil
Well-draining, chunky epiphytic mix
Physical Attributes
Mature Size
12-36 inches tall and wide
Growth Rate
Moderate
Propagation
Division of the fuzzy rhizomes during the spring repotting season.
Common Varieties
Blue Star
Striking glaucous, silvery-blue foliage characterized by deeply lobed, elongated fronds with elegantly ruffled margins.
Mandianum
Architectural, silvery-blue fronds that feature deeply lobed segments with clearly ruffled and wavy margins.
Ekstrand
Glaucous, silvery-blue fronds that feature deeply lobed shapes and distinctively ruffled, wavy margins.