Phlebodium aureum aka Gold Foot Fern

Taxonomy

Phlebodium aureum, also known as golden polypody, golden serpent fern, cabbage palm fern, gold-foot fern, blue-star fern, and hare-foot fern, is an epiphytic fern native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas. This plant was popular in Victorian England and still looks stunning in any house today. It has a blue-gray coloration and its fronds are covered in hair-like structures. The fronds can be up to 50 inches long and 20 inches wide in the wild. Growing conditions include partial sun, medium humidity, and moist but not soggy soil. It is a fascinating and ancient fern that enhances any environment.

Common names

Gold Foot Fern, Golden Polypody, Hare Foot Fern, Rabbit Foot Fern, Blue Star Fern

How to care for Gold Foot Fern

Difficulty

Gold Foot Fern presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.

Water

Gold Foot Fern should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Gold Foot Fern requires special care to keep it thriving. Its sensitivity to dry soil means that you need to be especially careful when it comes to selecting the right potting soil. Look for a soil that will retain moisture, but is also well-draining. A good potting soil should have plenty of organic material, such as coco coir or sphagnum moss, which will help to keep the soil moist and provide extra nutrition for your plant. When planting your Hare Foot Fern, make sure to mix the soil with some compost or manure to give it an extra boost of nutrients. Additionally, you should water your plant often to ensure that the soil remains moist. With the right care and attention, your Gold Foot Fern will bloom beautifully in your home.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Gold Foot Fern prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Cat approves this plant

Toxicity

Gold Foot Fern is not known to cause harm to humans or pets.

Fertilizer

Repotting the Gold Foot Fern is necessary either when it has doubled in size or once every year, whichever happens first. With fresh potting soil replenished annually, the plant will receive all the necessary nutrients, rendering the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that the source of a plant's energy is the sun, not fertilizer.

Growth-pattern

The Gold Foot Fern is a clump-forming species, with new growth originating from the soil surrounding the main plant.

Region of origin

Gold Foot Fern’s native range is Tropical and Subtropical Americas.


More info:
Wikipedia