Phlebodium aureum (Golden Polypody)

Phlebodium aureum, commonly known as Golden Polypody, Gold-foot Fern, or Blue Star Fern, is an evergreen rhizomatous fern in the Polypodiaceae family native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas. It grows naturally as an epiphyte on trees and palms, as well as on rocks and in accumulated organic matter. Thick creeping rhizomes covered with distinctive golden-brown scales produce arching, deeply lobed fronds that may reach 1-4 feet (30-120 cm) long. The foliage varies from green to striking blue-green or gray-green, with round sori arranged in rows on the undersides of mature fronds.

Several ornamental cultivars are widely grown. 'Blue Star' is especially popular for its compact habit and glaucous blue-green fronds, while 'Mandaianum' is known for strongly wavy foliage. 'Davana' has finely divided, distinctly ruffled and frilled blue-green fronds, giving the plant a denser, more delicate appearance than 'Blue Star'. Phlebodium aureum grows best in bright filtered light or partial shade and a loose, well-drained growing medium with regular moisture but no waterlogging. Its creeping rhizomes should remain near or above the surface rather than being deeply buried. In frost-free climates it can be grown outdoors in sheltered shade, while elsewhere it makes an adaptable container or houseplant. Hardy in USDA Zones 9-11; in Zone 9, plants are best grown in a sheltered location and may suffer frond damage or dieback during freezes. Its unusual blue-green foliage, golden-scaled rhizomes, and tolerance of typical indoor conditions distinguish it from many more demanding tropical ferns.