Soft, wavy, and full of movement, Phlebodium aureum ‘Davana’ is a beautifully textured fern with uniquely ruffled fronds in a soft blue-green tone. Compared to the more classic Blue Star Fern, ‘Davana’ has a more compact, slightly curled growth habit, giving it a fuller, more sculptural feel. It’s a brilliant choice for adding gentle texture to shelves, sideboards, or grouped plant displays.
Scientific Name
Phlebodium aureum ‘Davana’ (golden-foot fern, referring to the golden rhizomes)
Common Name
Blue Star Fern, Davana Fern
Origin
Derived from Phlebodium aureum, native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas
Light
Prefers bright, indirect light but will tolerate lower light conditions. Avoid direct sun, which can scorch the delicate fronds
Water
Keep the soil lightly moist but not soggy. Allow the top layer to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid letting it dry out completely, as this can cause fronds to crisp
Humidity
Enjoys moderate to higher humidity. More forgiving than many ferns, but benefits from a pebble tray or a spot in a naturally humid room
Soil
Use a well-draining houseplant compost with added bark or perlite to keep airflow around the roots
Food
Feed once a month during the growing season with a diluted balanced liquid fertiliser. Reduce feeding in autumn and winter
Temperature
Prefers temperatures between 16–26°C. Avoid temperatures below 10°C and protect from cold drafts
Pet-safe
Generally considered non-toxic, but not intended for consumption
Sprouts Top Tips
Don’t bury the rhizomes. Let those fuzzy, creeping roots sit on top of the soil as they would in nature – covering them can lead to rot.
