Phlebodium areolatum, the Virginia blue fern, is a species of epiphytic fern in the family Polypodiaceae. It is native to the New World Tropics and Subtropics; Mexico, Florida, some of the Caribbean islands, Central America, and South America to Argentina, and has been introduced to India. As its synonym Phlebodium pseudoaureum it has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.
False golden polypody is highly resistant to disease and is generally not prone to illness. However, it can be susceptible to leaf spots if light and ventilation are poor and if it is overwatered. Its care level is considered easy, since it mainly needs regular watering and little else. False golden polypody is suitable for people who do not have the time and energy to devote to regular care.
How to keep Phlebodium Areolatum.
Light
The false golden polypody is indigenous to habitats like forest understories or rocky regions, where it naturally encounters shade. It typically prefers areas with partial sunlight exposure, yet it exhibits a hardy and adaptable character, capable of thriving in full sunlight or complete shade.
Water
This plant needs to be regularly watered while it is kept in pots. Although there is no set of predefined schedules for watering it, you can start from once a week and notice if it's sufficient. The growing plants might not require the same amount of water as the grownups do. The important thing to remember is to not let the plant get overwatered. It can be fatal. Similarly, under-watering can also be the reason behind the yellow leaves. So the key is to water the plant just as much as it needs. Not too much and surely, not too little.
Temperature
The false golden polypody is native to tropical areas, characterised by their hot, damp climates. Thus, it is naturally suited to endure high levels of heat and moisture. Unexpected temperature changes are not favored by this plant, and it thrives in a consistently warm setting, so fluctuations in indoor temperature should be kept to a minimum. It generally doesn't withstand low temperatures and requires a warmer ambiance for its development. In case the surrounding temperature falls considerably, the plant's growth could halt or it could even perish.
Fertilizer
The False golden polypody plant typically needs the maximum amount of fertilizer during its main growth phase, which is predominantly in the spring, summer, and the early part of the fall season. Providing fertilization is important as the soil may lack certain necessary nutrients. This helps stimulate robust root and stem growth, as well as promote appealing foliage— a characteristic aspect of this particular plant species.
Pruning
You can prune to groom your plant and maintain its size and shape etc. Carefully remove the dead or damaged leaves.
Pot & Repot
When you're replanting the False golden polypody, select a pot that's 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) larger and has sufficient drainage. Opt for a potting mix that drains well. Replant in the spring or autumn, making sure that the root ball is marginally below the edge of the flower pot. Generously water post-replanting and position it in a warm location with indirect light.
Toxicity
The good news is that this fern is not toxic. You can easily let the plant live anywhere around the room where there are children or pets. No reported toxicity to birds, cats, dogs, horses, farm animals, and humans.
Further reading →
The toxicity and danger assessments provided are for reference only. We do not assure their accuracy, so it's crucial not to depend on them. Seek professional advice when necessary for accurate guidance.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Phlebodium
- Family
- Polypodiaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 9-11
- Mature Height
- 30 cm to 61 cm
- Mature Spread
- 40 cm to 76 cm
- Leaf Color
- Medium Sea Green, Forest Green
- Leaf Type
- Semi-evergreen
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Native Area
- Colombia, Cuba, Honduras, Mexico, Guatemala, United States, Bolivia, Venezuela, Peru, Guyana, Brazil, Nicaragua, Ecuador, Costa Rica, Panama, Jamaica
Other names.