It turns out that we can decorate our house with a plant that grows in Hawaii and the Caribbean. We are talking about the phenomenal Phlebodium aureus, also called the golden fern. It delights with hanging, light green or blue-green leaves. Get to know its characteristics and easy growing conditions.
Phlebodium aureus belongs to the fern family. In its natural environment, it is a huge fern that is an epiphyte. It can grow between tree branches, in rock crevices or in the ground.
In our climate, we can only grow this specimen as a potted plant. It reaches 100 cm in height, so over time it will not fit on a small windowsill. Therefore, it is worth placing it in a high flower bed or in a hanging pot.
A characteristic feature of Phlebodium aureus is a thick rhizome covered with scales, taking on a golden color. The leaves of this plant are extremely decorative – they are shiny and have slots that make them look extremely attractive. As mentioned, these parts hang over because they grow from long and thin petioles.
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Growing Phlebodium aureus does not cause any problems and is similar to regular care. However, you must follow the most important care rulesso that it remains in good condition and puts out new growth every now and then. So how to care for this plant?
The golden fern prefers a bright or semi-shaded position without drafts. However, it does not tolerate direct sunlight because it can burn its delicate leaves. Therefore, a north-western or northern windowsill will be the best. We do not recommend placing this specimen on a southern windowsill. It feels good at room temperature, but in winter you can move it to a cooler room, where the temperature is 18 degrees Celsius.
We plant Phlebodium aureus in permeable, humus-rich soil with a slightly acidic pH.. It is best to choose a substrate dedicated to ferns, compost or a mixture of peat, clay soil, sand, decomposed leaves and soaked bark.
We water this plant often – in summer 3 times a week, and in winter it is enough to do it once a week. Its soil should be constantly moist, but we cannot make the ground wet. The roots will then rot.
The golden fern also requires air humidification. It is worth watering it every day in summer and every two days in winter. We can place an air humidifier near the specimen or place a pot on a stand filled with pebbles or expanded clay.
We fertilize Phlebodium aureus only during the growth period, i.e. from March to September. Just do it once a month, using fern fertilizer.
