Phlebodium aureum 'Davana'

Species and cultivar background of Phlebodium aureum 'Davana'

Phlebodium aureum is native from the southeastern United States and Caribbean through tropical South America. In nature, its creeping rhizome stays exposed as it spreads across trunks and other surfaces in warm, humid places.

'Davana' was selected for its compact size and highly frilled foliage.

Care needs of Phlebodium aureum 'Davana'

• Light: Place it in bright filtered light. Strong direct sun can bleach or scorch the frilled leaf surface.
• Temperature: Aim for 16°C or warmer while it is growing. Keep the fern clear of cold draughts and radiators.
• Humidity: Humid air helps the frilled edges stay in good condition. Gentle air movement helps the crown dry evenly after watering.
• Water: Water when the mix is nearly dry, soaking it evenly and allowing the pot to drain completely.
• Growing mix: Use a loose, soil-based fern mix with bark or other chunky ingredients so water drains well around the roots and rhizome.
• Feeding: Use a weak balanced fertiliser while new fronds are opening.
• Grooming: Remove fully brown or damaged fronds at the base with clean scissors.
• Repotting: Repot when the spreading rhizome reaches the pot edge or the mix has compacted and no longer drains well.

Common concerns with Phlebodium aureum 'Davana'

• The fine frilled edges become crisp: The growing mix or surrounding air is too dry. Check moisture first, then improve humidity around the fern while keeping gentle air movement.
• Pale tan patches appear on the upper fronds: Direct sun has damaged the foliage. Shift the fern to bright filtered light.
• Several fronds yellow while the mix remains wet: Drainage has slowed and the roots need more air. Let the top of the mix dry slightly before watering again, and repot into fresh, faster-draining mix if the old mix has compacted.
• Small brown shell-like bumps appear on stems or fronds: Scale insects may be present. Isolate the fern and inspect the fronds closely. For treatment, use a product whose label specifically covers scale on ornamental plants, following its application and repeat instructions.

Phlebodium aureum ‘Davana’ is non-toxic to cats and dogs

• This plant is non-toxic to cats and dogs.
• Its effects on people are unclear, so keep it away from young children who may chew it.
• Eating a large amount can still cause an upset stomach. Seek medical or veterinary advice if symptoms continue.

Who first published the name Phlebodium aureum, and when?

Phlebodium comes from Greek phleb-, meaning vein.

John Smith established the genus Phlebodium in 1841 in Journal of Botany (Hooker), volume 4, page 58.

Carl Linnaeus first described it as Polypodium aureum in 1753 in Species Plantarum, page 1087. John Smith later placed it in Phlebodium as Phlebodium aureum in 1841 in Journal of Botany (Hooker), volume 4, page 59.