If you’re looking for an uncommon and stunning houseplant, the Phlebodium Aureum ‘Davana’ is a perfect choice. This unique variety of the Blue Star Fern features beautifully ruffled, bluish-green foliage that adds a touch of elegance to any indoor space.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the natural habitat, growth habits, and essential care tips for the Phlebodium Davana.
Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or a beginner, this article will equip you with the knowledge to keep your Davana fern thriving and beautifully vibrant.
Natural Habitat and Growth Habits
The Phlebodium Aureum, commonly known as the Blue Star Fern, is native to the Southeastern United States, the Caribbean, and tropical South America. It is an evergreen plant that thrives in regions with year-round rainfall.
In areas with a dry season, the fern goes semi-dormant and regains its vibrancy with the return of rainfall.
The Davana fern, a cultivar of Phlebodium Aureum, is a stunning variety with ruffled, bluish-green foliage that starts off as a brighter green color.
The Phlebodium Davana grows by producing rhizomes that creep along in the soil, gradually spreading and creating a lush display of foliage. Its growth habit, combined with its distinctive blue-green color, makes it an eye-catching addition to any indoor garden or plant collection.
Light Requirements
Contrary to popular belief, ferns like the Phlebodium Davana thrive in bright, indirect light. Place your fern near a window that receives 2-4 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth.
Eastern windows are particularly beneficial, as the morning sunlight is gentler compared to harsh afternoon sun. If your space lacks direct sunlight, don’t worry.
You can still grow the Davana fern in locations with less intense light, but make sure to place it immediately in front of a sunless window. Insufficient light will result in pale leaves, so ensuring the right light conditions is crucial for its health and vibrancy.
Pro Tip: Morning sunlight from an eastern window is ideal for the Phlebodium Davana fern.
Watering and Moisture
Like any fern, the Phlebodium Davana thrives in consistently moist potting mix. It’s important to check the moisture level of the soil regularly. Water your fern when the surface of the potting mix feels dry to the touch.
Avoid letting the potting mix dry out completely, as this can lead to frond death and brown, crispy edges on the leaves.
Consistency is key when it comes to watering your Davana fern. However, be cautious not to let the plant sit in excess water. Always discard any accumulated water in the saucer or cache pot to prevent root rot and ensure proper drainage.
Pro Tip: Aim for an evenly moist potting mix to keep your Phlebodium Davana fern healthy and vibrant.
Humidity Requirements
The Phlebodium Davana fern appreciates high humidity, replicating its natural environment. If possible, place your fern in naturally humid areas of your home, such as the kitchen or bathroom, as long as it receives the appropriate light levels mentioned earlier. These areas tend to have higher humidity due to frequent water usage.
While humidity is important for ferns, maintaining consistently moist potting mix takes precedence. If you can provide the recommended light conditions, keep the potting mix evenly moist, and maintain high humidity, your Phlebodium Davana fern will thrive.
Pro Tip: Consider using a humidifier, especially during the dry winter months, to maintain optimal humidity levels for your fern.
Temperature Range
The Phlebodium Davana fern is adaptable to average home temperatures. However, it is best to keep the fern in an environment with a minimum temperature of 60°F (about 16°C). The ideal temperature range for this fern is between 60°F and 85°F (16°C and 29°C).
Pro Tip: Maintain a temperature range of 60°F to 85°F for optimal growth of your Phlebodium Davana fern.
Choosing the Right Potting Mix
When it comes to potting mix, any well-draining mix will work well for the Phlebodium Davana. A popular option is a mix consisting of 2-3 parts of a good potting mix, such as Miracle Gro or Espoma, and 1 part perlite. This combination ensures adequate drainage while retaining moisture.
Some enthusiasts prefer chunkier mixes for the Davana fern, using equal parts potting mix, perlite, and orchid bark. Keep in mind that these mixes tend to dry out faster, requiring more frequent watering.
Pro Tip: Opt for a well-draining potting mix with good moisture retention for your Phlebodium Davana fern.
Choosing the Right Pot
The choice of pot plays a significant role in the overall health of your Phlebodium Davana fern. Terra cotta pots, while popular for many plants, are not suitable for ferns as they tend to dry out quickly. Plastic pots or glazed ceramic pots are better options as they retain moisture for longer periods.
Regardless of the pot type, ensure that it has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Proper drainage is essential for the overall health and longevity of your fern.
Pro Tip: Opt for plastic or glazed ceramic pots with drainage holes to provide ideal growing conditions for your Phlebodium Davana fern.
Propagation Techniques
The Phlebodium Davana fern is relatively easy to propagate, thanks to its creeping rhizomes. To propagate, gently remove the plant from its pot and tease apart the individual plants using your hands.
In some cases, you may need to use a sterilized knife or pruner to cut through the root ball and separate the plants.
Pro Tip: Propagate your Phlebodium Davana fern by dividing the plant through its creeping rhizomes.
Where to Buy the Phlebodium Davana Fern
In the United States, the Phlebodium Davana fern is available through Proven Winners as part of their Leafjoy houseplant line. Look for the Living Lace™ Davana fern to add this stunning variety to your indoor garden or collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are the leaves of my Phlebodium Davana fern turning pale?
Pale leaves are often a sign that your fern is not receiving enough light. Ensure that your fern is placed immediately in front of a window that gets no direct sunlight, or preferably, a few hours of direct sunlight from an eastern or western window.
Why are the leaves of my Phlebodium Davana fern turning brown and crispy?
The most common cause of brown, crispy leaves is dry potting mix. Aim for consistently moist potting mix and maintain high humidity to prevent this issue.
Is the Phlebodium Davana fern toxic?
No, the Phlebodium Davana fern is considered non-toxic to humans and pets. You can enjoy the beauty of this fern without worrying about any harmful effects.
Conclusion
The Phlebodium Davana fern is a stunning addition to any indoor garden or plant collection. By providing the right light, moisture, and humidity, you can ensure its vibrant blue-green foliage thrives.
Remember to water consistently, maintain high humidity, and choose the appropriate potting mix and pot type. With proper care and attention, your Phlebodium Davana fern will reward you with its unique beauty for years to come.
Now that you have the essential care tips and knowledge about the Phlebodium Davana fern, it’s time to bring this exquisite plant into your home. Enjoy the elegance and beauty of this uncommon fern and create a captivating indoor oasis. Happy gardening!