Family: Polypodiaceae
Phlebodium aureum (rabbit’s foot fern, golden polypody, laua`e haole) is an epiphytic fern native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas. Extractions (decoctions) have been used as a cure-all in Central American folk medicine. These tonics were prescribed for a multitude of ailments, ranging from asthma to heart disease. Modern medicine has also investigated P. aureum. Oral consumption of the extract has been studied for the treatment of skin disorders, and consumption of the extract has been shown to protect the skin from ultraviolet light damage. It is reported to be naturalized in South Africa, sparingly in New South Wales and Queensland. It is an occasional escape in Madeira and grows near cultivation areas in Southern California. This fern was first on Kauai in 1910, has since naturalized on all major islands and is now a common epiphyte in some mesic forests, from sea level to 700 m.
High Risk Traits:
- Thrives and spreads in regions with tropical climates
- Naturalized on all main Hawaiian Islands, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Mauritius and probably elsewhere
- Established in, and a potential environmental weed, of mesic forests in the Hawaiian Islands
- Tolerates deer (likely unpalatable to browsing animals)
- Tolerates shade and higher light environments
- Climbing, epiphytic habit (could compete with native epiphytes)
- Reproduces by spores and vegetatively from rhizomes
- Gametophyte stage is self-fertile
- Spores dispersed by wind, water, as a pot contaminant, and through intentional cultivation
- Prolific spore production
- May resprout or regrow from rhizomes if fronds are damaged or removed
Low Risk Traits:
- Despite widespread naturalization, negative impacts have not been specifically identified
- Unarmed (no spines, thorns, or burrs)
- Non-toxic
