Phlebodium aureum (17cm pot)

Phlebodium aureum ‘Blue Star’, commonly known as the Blue Star Fern, is a distinctive indoor fern with long, softly lobed fronds in an unusual blue-green shade. Its slightly wild, arching growth gives it a relaxed, sculptural appearance that feels quite different from the finer foliage of more traditional ferns.

Supplied in a generous 17cm nursery pot at approximately 50cm+ tall, this is a full, established plant with plenty of immediate impact. Blue Star Ferns are also more tolerant of typical household conditions than many other ferns, making them a great choice if you love fern foliage but want something relatively easy to live with.

Light & Position

Give your Blue Star Fern bright, indirect or filtered light. It will tolerate somewhat lower light levels, although good indirect light will encourage stronger, healthier growth.

Avoid strong direct sunshine, particularly through glass, which can scorch the blue-green fronds. A bright bathroom, kitchen, bedroom or living space can all work well.

Watering

Keep the compost lightly and consistently moist, allowing the surface to dry slightly before watering again. Blue Star Ferns prefer more regular moisture than many houseplants but should never be left sitting in waterlogged compost.

Try to water around the compost rather than directly into the centre of the plant, and reduce watering slightly during autumn and winter when growth slows.

Humidity & Temperature

Blue Star Ferns appreciate moderate to higher humidity but are generally more adaptable to normal household conditions than many traditional ferns. Keep away from cold draughts, radiators and other direct heat sources.

Regular misting is not essential; good surrounding humidity, steady temperatures and airflow are more important.

Feeding

Feed lightly during spring and summer while the plant is actively growing using a balanced liquid houseplant fertiliser at reduced strength. Reduce or stop feeding during autumn and winter.

Growth & Care

Phlebodium grows from distinctive creeping rhizomes at the surface of the compost, producing fresh blue-green fronds as the plant develops. These rhizomes are a natural part of the plant and should not be buried deeply when repotting.

Older or damaged fronds can be removed close to the base to keep the plant looking fresh. Given the right conditions, Blue Star Fern is relatively fast growing and can develop into a beautifully full, architectural specimen.

Why You'll Love It

• Distinctive blue-green, softly lobed foliage
• Generous 17cm plant with an established, full appearance
• More forgiving than many traditional indoor ferns
• Beautiful relaxed, architectural growth habit
• Ideal for bathrooms, kitchens and bright living spaces
• Pet-friendly choice for homes with cats or dogs

Pet & Child Safety

Blue Star Ferns are generally regarded as non-toxic to cats and dogs, making them a good choice for pet-friendly homes.

Plant Details

Botanical Name: Phlebodium aureum ‘Blue Star’
Common Name: Blue Star Fern
Nursery Pot Size: 17cm
Approximate Height: 50cm+ including pot
Fits Decorative Pot Size: 20cm
Growth Habit: Arching / spreading fern
Position: Indoors