Polypodium pseudoaureum

Polypodium or Phlebodium pseudoaureum is an evergreen or semi-evergreen fern, well known to indoor plant enthusiasts in the form of Phlebodium aureum. This is Phlebodium pseudoaureum whose cold resistance is higher and the fronds larger. It is said to withstand freezing temperatures up to approximately -6° C. That's why it is recommended as an outdoor plant. It is possible that it can withstand even colder temperatures. With its large fronds of glaucous blue-green, reaching a height of 1m (3ft), it gradually colonizes an area in partial shade or light shade through its wandering rhizome, from which narrow and divided fronds emerge. Fairly easy to grow in any slightly acidic to neutral, moist or even dry, well-drained soil. This fern is perfect in the undergrowth under trees, in a Japanese-style scene, or in a pot.

Polypodium pseudoaureum or Phlebodium pseudoaureum is part of a large group of plants called polypod ferns, which are terrestrial, epiphytic, or even lithophytic species, widely spread in the temperate northern hemisphere, belonging to the Polypodiaceae family. Phlebodium pseudoaureum is native to the West Indies and tropical regions of Central and South America. This hardy perennial develops from a fleshy rhizome, curiously sweet, covered with reddish scales. Capable of spreading on very different supports, its growth is quite slow, with an adult plant forming an erect mat of about 1m (3ft) high, covering an area of 50cm². The foliage consists of narrow, lanceolate fronds, highly divided around a slender rachis. In this variety, they are a glaucous blue-green. The plant produces sori (small sacs containing spores) throughout the year. They take the form of small warts about 2 mm (0in) in diameter, orange in colour, located on the undersides of the leaves.

Phlebodium pseudoaureum has its place in the garden in mild climates, alongside the beautiful Meconopsis cambrica, or alongside a lovely variegated ivy (Hedera helix 'Marginata Elegantissima'). It can also be associated with Hostas, Hydrangeas, and Shrubby Fuchsias, always in filtered light or shade. You can also create a tiny garden with a very Japanese feel by pairing it with round stones, moss, or even with a painted Japanese fern (Athyrium niponicum 'Pictum'). Plant it in a pot on the terrace or balcony.