Bear Paw Fern, Blue Fern

Polypodium aureum L.  'Mandaianum'

paul-ee-PODE-ee-um  ORE-ee-um

Ferns

Explanation of name:  The generic name means many feet.  Aureum means golden.

Spelling note:   The spelling of the cultivar name varies with resources.  We have followed Hortus III with 'Mandaianum'.

Natural range:  The species ranges from Florida to South America.

Recognition:  Usually epiphytic ferns with large pinnately lobed leaves.   The "Golden Polypody" common on Florida Cabbage Palms is this species.  'Mandaianum' has very large irregularlylobed-laciniatepinnately lobed fronds with a bluish cast.

Landscape uses:  Hanging baskets, waterfalls, other moist partially shaded places where large hanging leaves are appropriate