Rabbit’s Foot Fern is one of the most eximious species in the plant world. Indeed, it adds a hint of charm to many spaces, particularly indoors. Since people had it grown as a cultivar plant, The use of this plant for decorative purposes has been spreading out the far-flung corners of the world. In terms of its origin, This plant is native to Fiji Islands. It is also known as Hare’s Foot Fern. Besides, it is termed “Davallia Fejeensis” in Botanics.
General Information
Rabbit’s Foot Fern is a non-flowering perennial plant possessing herbaceous stems emerging from the soil and leaflets going along the stems. What makes this plant unique is tarantula-like rhizomes in light brown cascading from the pot. That’s why this plant has this name. But it isn’t an invasive plant like Arrowhead Plant. Interestingly, it leads a dependent life with trees and rocks in nature. For that reason, it is an epiphytic plant just like Bird’s Nest Fern. On the other hand, its cultivar types can grow freely under indoor conditions. This plant may reach up to 2 ft (60 cm). So such plants are relatively small. Above all, Rabbit’s Foot Fern is a non-toxic plant so pets are free to hang around it.
How to Care for Davallia Fejeensis
Sunlight: Davallia Fejeensis thrive better in semi-shade spaces getting filtered sunlight. But in the opposite case, the foliage is scorched under direct sunlight all day long. In the end, such neglect causes a quick death.
Watering: Particularly, the soil should remain moist. So watering weekly will suffice in general. But the stagnant water in the soil or the improper watering affect negatively the plant’s roots.
Humidity: Above 50% humidity in the setting usually meets Rabbit’s Foot Ferns need. To ensure it, humidifiers, wet trays, and water sprays do great jobs. Specifically, this plant likes daily misting.
Temperature: The optimal temperatures for it are in-between 60°F – 75°F (18°C – 24°C). Davallia Fejeensis also resists down to 55°F (13°C). However, it doesn’t tolerate cold drafts and sub-zero temperatures. Besides, according to the USDA plant hardiness map, it grows better in 10-11 zones.
Soil Type: Organic material-rich soils ensure better development. Specifically, peat-based soil mixes are effective. Also, those with high porous help the water evacuation and ease breathing.
Fertilizer: Water-soluble fertilizers are a kind of food for plants. Such plants mostly meet their energy need from them. Notably, they are effective when given in the growing season. By the way, overfertilizing causes built-up salt in the soil.
Propagation: The best propagation method is division. But that way requires a little attention because the mother plant can take damage. Alternatively, these ferns can be propagated by using spores.
Repotting: Such works require once two years in the spring months. Particularly, the plant should be watered the day before because of the transplant shock. Also, the next pot should be larger. For example, if the first is an animal planter, the second must be a hanging basket planter.
Common Problems
Leaf drop: Generally, ferns drop leaves in winter. That’s completely normal. But if it happens in its growing season, the plant may not be taking enough light.
Less growth: Such cases occurs when the fertilizers aren’t effective or sufficient. But it could also stem from whether the root absorbs the vital materials or don’t.
Bug infestation: Mealybugs, scales, aphids, red spiders, spider mites, and other harmful bugs invade Rabbit’s Foot Fern. Because the setting where the plant is doesn’t probably have a sustainable amount of humidity. Especially, dry air and soils attract such bugs.
Suggestions for problems: To prevent leaf drops in the growing season, you should ensure enough light for this plant. Then, it will get over this problem quickly without having been neglected its regular care. Less growth is a clear sign of malnutrition. For that reason, you should apply the fertilizer monthly in its growing season. Bug-infested plants cannot survive in the long term. So alcohol-based wipes and neem oils would work to combat these bugs.
