Rabbit’s Foot Fern

• Botanical Name: Davallia fejeensis

• Common Name(s): Rabbit’s foot fern, hare’s foot fern

Here are some features and details about the Rabbit’s Foot Fern:

1. Foliage: The Rabbit’s Foot Fern has delicate, lacy fronds that emerge from the furry rhizomes. The fronds are typically a bright green color and are finely divided into smaller leaflets, giving the plant a feathery appearance.
2. Rhizomes: One of the most striking features of the Rabbit’s Foot Fern is its above-ground rhizomes, which creep along the surface of the soil and resemble the foot of a rabbit. These rhizomes are covered in a dense layer of brown hairs, adding to the plant’s unique and whimsical look.
3. Growth Habit: Rabbit’s Foot Ferns have a creeping or trailing growth habit, making them well-suited for hanging baskets or elevated planters where their rhizomes can drape over the sides. They can also be grown in pots or containers with ample drainage.
4. Light Requirements: Rabbit’s Foot Ferns prefer bright, indirect light. They thrive in locations with filtered sunlight or partial shade. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight, as this can scorch their delicate fronds.
5. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water the Rabbit’s Foot Fern when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. It’s essential to water the soil directly and avoid wetting the furry rhizomes, as excess moisture can lead to rot.
6. Temperature and Humidity: Rabbit’s Foot Ferns prefer moderate to high humidity levels and temperatures between 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C). They thrive in humid environments such as bathrooms or kitchens. If the air is dry, consider using a humidifier or placing the plant on a humidity tray filled with water and pebbles.
7. Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix formulated for ferns or general-purpose potting soil amended with perlite or sand to improve drainage. The soil should be rich in organic matter and slightly acidic.
8. Fertilizing: Feed the Rabbit’s Foot Fern with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season (spring to fall). Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to salt buildup in the soil.
9. Propagation: Rabbit’s Foot Ferns can be propagated by division or by planting the rhizomes. To propagate by division, carefully separate the rhizomes with roots attached and plant them in separate pots.
10. Maintenance: Remove any dead or yellowing fronds regularly to encourage new growth and maintain the plant’s appearance. Prune back any overly long or leggy rhizomes to keep the plant compact and tidy.

Overall, the Rabbit’s Foot Fern is a delightful and easy-to-care-for plant that adds a touch of whimsy to indoor spaces with its unique appearance and graceful foliage. With the right care, it can thrive and bring joy to any plant enthusiast’s collection.