The Blue Star Fern, Phlebodium aureum, is one of those ferns that feels a little different from the traditional ones we all know. Rather than delicate, feathery foliage, it has these wonderful elongated, almost finger-like fronds with an incredible blue-green colour that gives the plant its name. For me, it’s that glaucous blue tone that makes it really special.

I love using Blue Star Ferns indoors because they bring softness without looking too fussy. The foliage has a slightly wild, relaxed habit, arching out from the centre of the plant, and it looks fantastic sitting on a shelf or bench where the fronds have room to spread. It also works beautifully in a sheltered, shady position outdoors in Sydney.

In its natural environment, Phlebodium grows as an epiphyte, often growing on trees rather than down in heavy garden soil, and that gives you a pretty good indication of how to treat it. It likes an open, free-draining potting mix with plenty of air around the roots. Don't bury the furry-looking rhizomes too deeply either — they're quite happy sitting at or just above the surface of the mix.

Light is important. Give it plenty of bright, indirect light or gentle morning sun, but keep it away from harsh afternoon sunlight which can burn those beautiful blue-green fronds. Keep the potting mix lightly moist through the warmer months, allowing it to dry slightly between watering, and make sure the pot drains freely.

They're relatively easy to look after, but one thing I wouldn't do is constantly fuss over them. Remove old or damaged fronds at the base, give them a light feed through spring and summer and otherwise let them do their thing. They'll gradually spread from those wonderful creeping rhizomes and become a really handsome plant.

For me, Blue Star Fern is all about foliage. That unusual blue colour, the beautiful shape of the leaves and its slightly unruly habit make it stand out from the crowd. If you think all ferns look the same, this one might just change your mind. Happy gardening. 🌿