Blue star fern care guide
Phlebodium aureum
Also known as: Blue star fern, Polypodium aureum
Pets and children
We haven't been able to confirm how this plant affects pets or small children. If any is eaten, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
How often to water Blue star fern
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 4 days
- Water thoroughly at the base once the surface of the mix dries, as a guide, without soaking the furry rhizomes; it handles dryness better than most ferns.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 6 days
- Drying slows, so generally water a day or two after the surface dries.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 10 days
- Keep it on the dry side in winter, watering sparingly about three to four days after the mix dries.
Light and placement for Blue star fern
A bright spot out of direct sun is about right; soft light from a north or east window usually keeps the bluish color, while strong sun yellows and scorches the fronds.
Overwintering Blue star fern
Overwintering guide: 5°C (41°F) or above
It takes down to about 5°C but overwinters best in a bright spot indoors kept on the dry side; it tolerates drier air than most ferns, though not the direct blast of a heater.
Fertilizing and repotting Blue star fern
Fertilizer
Diluted liquid fertilizer about once a month from May to September; as an epiphyte it needs little, and none in winter.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
Common problems with Blue star fern
- Rhizomes buried in the mix rot and the plant dies.
- Overwatering rots the roots and yellows the fronds.
- Direct sun scorches and bleaches the fronds.
Tips for growing Blue star fern
- Let the furry rhizomes creep over the surface rather than burying them.
- A shallow, wide pot with a free-draining mix suits it.
- The bluish bloom on the fronds is natural; do not wipe it off.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
