Davana Fern - Phlebodium Aureum 'Davana'

I’ve spent years growing all kinds of ferns, and the Davana Fern—also known by its botanical name Phlebodium Aureum ‘Davana’—has quickly become a standout in my collection. Below are answers to the most common questions I get asked about this striking foliage plant.

What Is Davana Fern and Why Did I Choose It?

Phlebodium Aureum ‘Davana’ is a cultivar of the blue star fern family. What first drew me in was its curling, scalloped, and leathery blue-green fronds. They almost look like they’ve been sculpted by hand. This fern brings a tropical, dramatic flair to my indoor plant collection without needing the constant misting that others demand.

It’s evergreen, epiphytic, and native to tropical rainforests of the Americas. Unlike the typical Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata), which sheds more and dries faster, Davana holds onto its fronds and thrives with less attention.

How Do I Care for a Davana Fern?

I keep it simple—and so should you.

Light: I give it bright, indirect light. It can handle low light, but that dims the color and curls.
Water: I water when the top 1–2 inches of soil feels dry. Overwatering causes root rot. I learned that the hard way.
Humidity: It tolerates average indoor humidity, but it really thrives above 50%. I keep it near my other moisture-loving plants.
Soil: A well-draining peat-based mix works well. I use an orchid mix blended with some perlite.
Fertilizer: Every 4–6 weeks during the growing season, I give it a diluted liquid fertilizer.

What Makes Davana Fern Different from Regular Blue Star Fern?

Great question—I’ve grown both.

Davana Fern has wavy, more deeply lobed fronds, almost like little ruffles.
Blue Star Fern (Phlebodium Aureum) is flatter, smoother, and less ornamental.
The Davana also tends to have a more compact habit, which is great for small spaces.
In my experience, the Davana’s fronds feel a bit tougher and hold their shape better indoors.

Both are air-purifying, epiphytic, and resilient. But for that extra aesthetic pop, Davana wins.

Can I Grow Davana Fern Outside?

I grow it indoors, but I’ve experimented outdoors too. It works outside in USDA zones 9–11. If you’re in a warmer climate like Florida or parts of California, you’re good.

Just remember:

Keep it shaded.
Shelter it from wind.
Avoid frost. It’s not cold-hardy.

I once left one outside during an unexpected cold snap, and the damage was quick and ugly. The plant didn’t die, but it took months to bounce back.

Is Davana Fern Safe Around Pets?

Yes, Phlebodium Aureum ‘Davana’ is non-toxic to cats and dogs. My cat once gave it a nibble test—it passed. No vet trips needed.

However, that doesn’t mean you should encourage pets to chew on it. Like all ferns, it could upset sensitive stomachs if eaten in large amounts.

What Plants Pair Well With Davana Fern?

I love mixing textures and shades. The Davana’s blue-green, ruffled foliage pairs beautifully with:

Peperomia ‘Ginny’ – Pink-edged leaves contrast perfectly.
Calathea Medallion – Both love similar humidity and indirect light.
Ficus Tineke – Adds vertical interest and creamy variegation.
Hoya Australis Lisa – Similar light needs, waxy leaves contrast with fern texture.

In terrariums or grouped pots, Davana plays the role of soft-edge anchor—elegant, yet grounding.

How Do I Propagate Davana Fern?

It propagates best by rhizome division. Here’s how I do it:

Wait until spring or early summer.
Take it out of its pot.
Cut a section of rhizome with at least 2–3 fronds attached.
Pot it separately in moist, well-draining mix.
Keep humidity high until roots establish.

Don’t try to grow it from spores unless you have saint-like patience. Rhizome division is faster and more reliable.

How Fast Does Davana Fern Grow?

It’s moderately fast-growing, especially in spring and summer. I’ve had mine double in size in a year with regular feeding and consistent care.

Just don’t expect it to explode like a pothos or monstera. It’s more about steady, shapely growth than speed.

What Problems Have I Had with Davana Fern?

Only a few, and they’re easy to avoid:

Crispy leaves: Means low humidity or too much direct sun.
Yellowing fronds: Usually from overwatering or soggy soil.
Pests: Rare. I’ve had maybe one spider mite issue, ever. Neem oil handled it.

It’s not fussy—but don’t forget it either. It’s not a cactus.

Final Thoughts – Why I’ll Always Grow Davana Fern

Davana Fern – Phlebodium Aureum ‘Davana’ is unique, tough, and stunning. It’s one of those rare plants that looks high-maintenance but isn’t. I love its sculptural fronds, how it holds color, and the way it fills out a shelf or corner with quiet style.