About Rabbit's Foot Fern
Rabbit's Foot Fern Introduction
The Rabbit’s Foot Fern (Davallia fejeensis) is a unique and fascinating epiphytic fern native to Fiji and other South Pacific islands. It gets its common name from its distinctive rhizomes that grow along the soil surface, resembling furry rabbit’s feet. These rhizomes are covered in fine, rust-colored hairs that give them a soft, fuzzy appearance.
This fern is known for its delicate, lacy fronds that can grow up to 2 feet long. The fronds are triangular in shape and are composed of many small, finely divided leaflets, giving the plant an elegant and airy appearance. The overall plant can reach a height of 1-2 feet and spread up to 3 feet wide, making it an excellent choice for hanging baskets or mounted displays.
Rabbit’s Foot Ferns are prized for their unusual growth habit and their ability to adapt to various indoor environments. They are popular among plant enthusiasts for their low-maintenance nature and their ability to purify air by removing toxins. In their natural habitat, these ferns often grow on tree trunks or rocks, using their rhizomes to anchor themselves and absorb nutrients and moisture from the air and rain.
Rabbit's Foot Fern Care & Growing Guide
Caring for a Rabbit’s Foot Fern requires attention to its unique needs, but with proper care, it can thrive as a beautiful indoor plant. These ferns prefer bright, indirect light and high humidity, mimicking their natural tropical environment. They should be placed near a north or east-facing window, away from direct sunlight which can scorch their delicate fronds.
Watering is crucial for Rabbit’s Foot Ferns. They prefer consistently moist soil but are susceptible to root rot if overwatered. It’s best to water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, allowing excess water to drain freely. Humidity is equally important; misting the plant regularly or placing it on a pebble tray filled with water can help maintain the moisture levels it craves.
Fertilizing should be done sparingly, using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Rabbit’s Foot Ferns benefit from occasional pruning to remove any dead or yellowing fronds, which helps maintain the plant’s shape and encourages new growth. Repotting is typically needed every 2-3 years, or when the plant outgrows its current container. When repotting, be careful not to bury the furry rhizomes, as they prefer to grow along the surface of the soil.
Soil
Rabbit’s Foot Ferns thrive in a well-draining, organic-rich potting mix. The ideal soil composition should be light and airy, allowing for proper aeration and drainage while retaining some moisture. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and regular potting soil in equal parts works well. The optimal pH range for these ferns is slightly acidic to neutral, between 6.0 and 7.0.
Good drainage is crucial for preventing root rot, a common issue with these ferns. Adding orchid bark or coarse sand to the soil mix can improve drainage. The soil should be kept consistently moist but never waterlogged.
Soil problems to watch out for include:
1. Poor drainage: Can lead to root rot. Ensure pots have drainage holes and use a well-draining soil mix.
2. Compaction: Over time, soil can become compacted, reducing aeration. Gently loosen the top layer of soil periodically.
3. Inappropriate pH: If leaves yellow or growth slows, the soil pH may be off. Use a pH testing kit and adjust as needed.
4. Salt build-up: Can occur from fertilizer use. Flush the soil thoroughly with water every few months.
5. Nutrient deficiencies: May cause yellowing or stunted growth. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season.
6. Root boundness: As the plant grows, it may become root-bound. Repot every 2-3 years or when roots start growing out of drainage holes.
Fertilizer
Rabbit’s Foot Ferns benefit from regular, but light fertilization during their active growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half the recommended strength every 4-6 weeks.
Recommended fertilizer mixture:
– Use a balanced 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 NPK (Nitrogen-Phosphorus-Potassium) fertilizer.
– Dilute to half strength to avoid over-fertilization.
– Alternatively, use a fertilizer specifically formulated for ferns.
Signs of over-fertilization:
– Brown or burnt leaf tips
– Crusty soil surface
– Stunted growth
– Wilting despite adequate watering
Signs of under-fertilization:
– Pale or yellowing fronds
– Slow or stunted growth
– Smaller than normal new leaves
Organic fertilizer alternatives:
– Compost tea
– Diluted fish emulsion
– Seaweed extract
Specific nutrient requirements:
– Rabbit’s Foot Ferns particularly benefit from nitrogen for lush foliage growth.
– They may show iron deficiency in alkaline soils, manifesting as yellowing between leaf veins.
Fertilize only when the plant is actively growing. Reduce or stop fertilization in fall and winter when growth slows. Always water the plant before applying fertilizer to prevent root burn. If you notice any signs of over-fertilization, flush the soil thoroughly with water to remove excess salts.
Watering
Rabbit’s Foot Ferns prefer consistently moist soil but are susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Allow excess water to drain freely from the pot.
These ferns prefer room temperature water. While they can tolerate tap water, they may benefit from rainwater or distilled water, especially in areas with hard water.
Signs of underwatering include:
– Drooping or wilting fronds
– Dry, crispy leaf edges
– Slow growth
Signs of overwatering include:
– Yellowing fronds
– Soft, mushy stems near the soil line
– Fungal growth on soil surface
Watering needs may change seasonally. During the growing season (spring and summer), the fern may need more frequent watering. In winter, when growth slows, reduce watering frequency but don’t allow the soil to dry out completely.
During different growth stages, newly propagated or young ferns may require more consistent moisture than mature plants. Always check the soil moisture before watering and adjust based on the plant’s needs and environmental conditions.
Lighting
Rabbit’s Foot Ferns prefer bright, indirect light. In their natural habitat, they grow under the canopy of larger trees, receiving dappled sunlight. Indoors, place them near a north or east-facing window where they can receive plenty of light without being exposed to direct sun rays.
Signs of insufficient light include:
– Pale, elongated fronds
– Slow growth
– Smaller than normal new leaves
Signs of excessive light exposure include:
– Yellowing or browning of fronds
– Crispy, dry leaf edges
– Stunted growth
If natural light conditions are suboptimal, you can use artificial grow lights to supplement. Fluorescent or LED grow lights placed about 6-12 inches above the plant for 12-14 hours a day can provide adequate light. If the fern is receiving too much light, move it further from the window or use a sheer curtain to filter the light.
Temperature
Rabbit’s Foot Ferns thrive in temperatures between 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C). They can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures down to 50°F (10°C) but should be protected from cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations.
These ferns are not frost-hardy and should be kept away from cold windows in winter. They also don’t tolerate extreme heat well. Temperatures consistently above 80°F (27°C) can stress the plant.
Tips for maintaining ideal temperature:
1. Avoid placing near heating vents, air conditioners, or drafty windows.
2. If outdoors, bring the plant inside when temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
3. In summer, move to a cooler spot if indoor temperatures rise above 80°F (27°C).
4. Use a thermometer near the plant to monitor temperature.
Rabbit’s Foot Ferns can adapt to slight temperature fluctuations, but sudden changes can cause stress. If exposed to temperatures outside their preferred range, they may show signs of distress such as yellowing fronds or leaf drop. Gradual acclimatization is key when moving the plant to a new environment with different temperature conditions.
Humidity
Rabbit’s Foot Ferns thrive in high humidity environments, preferring levels between 50-80%. These ferns naturally grow in tropical regions where humidity is consistently high.
To increase humidity:
1. Use a pebble tray: Place the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water, ensuring the pot doesn’t sit directly in the water.
2. Mist regularly: Use a fine mist spray bottle to mist the fronds daily, especially during dry seasons.
3. Group plants: Placing several humidity-loving plants together can create a microclimate with higher humidity.
4. Use a humidifier: A room humidifier can significantly increase ambient humidity.
To decrease humidity (rarely necessary):
1. Improve air circulation: Use a fan or open windows to promote air movement.
2. Reduce misting frequency.
3. Move the plant to a less humid room.
Symptoms of low humidity stress:
– Brown, crispy leaf edges
– Yellowing fronds
– Slow growth or dormancy
– Increased susceptibility to pests
Symptoms of excessively high humidity:
– Fungal growth on soil or plant
– Soft, mushy growth
– Increased risk of root rot
For Rabbit’s Foot Ferns, pebble trays and regular misting are often the most effective and easy-to-maintain methods for increasing humidity. However, if you live in a particularly dry climate, a humidifier may be necessary to maintain optimal conditions.
Propagation
Rabbit’s Foot Ferns can be propagated through division or by rooting rhizome cuttings. Here’s a step-by-step guide for both methods:
Division Method:
1. Choose a mature, healthy plant for division.
2. Carefully remove the plant from its pot.
3. Gently separate the rhizomes, ensuring each division has several fronds and a good portion of the rhizome.
4. Trim away any dead or damaged parts.
5. Replant each division in a pot with fresh, well-draining potting mix.
6. Water thoroughly and place in a warm, humid location with indirect light.
Rhizome Cutting Method:
1. Select a healthy rhizome with at least one growing point.
2. Cut a 3-4 inch section of the rhizome using clean, sharp scissors.
3. Remove any fronds from the lower half of the cutting.
4. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone (optional but can improve success rate).
5. Plant the cutting in a small pot with moist, well-draining potting mix.
6. Cover the pot with a clear plastic bag to maintain humidity.
7. Place in a warm location with bright, indirect light.
8. Mist regularly and keep the soil lightly moist.
9. Roots should develop in 4-6 weeks. Remove the plastic bag gradually once new growth appears.
The division method generally has a higher success rate and produces larger plants more quickly. Rhizome cuttings can be more challenging but allow for more new plants from a single parent.
Best time to propagate: Spring or early summer, when the plant is actively growing.
Establishment time: New plants typically take 2-3 months to establish well. Keep them in a warm, humid environment and avoid fertilizing until you see signs of new growth.
Potting
Rabbit’s Foot Ferns prefer shallow, wide pots that accommodate their spreading rhizomes. Clay or terracotta pots are ideal as they allow for better air circulation and moisture evaporation.
Pot requirements:
– Must have drainage holes to prevent water logging
– Should be 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current pot when repotting
Soil composition:
– Use a well-draining, organic-rich potting mix
– A mixture of 1 part peat moss, 1 part perlite, and 1 part regular potting soil works well
Repotting frequency:
– Every 2-3 years, or when the plant outgrows its current pot
– Best done in spring, at the beginning of the growing season
Signs that indicate repotting is needed:
– Roots growing out of drainage holes
– Water running straight through the pot without being absorbed
– Slowed growth despite proper care
– Rhizomes crowding the pot’s edge
Repotting process:
1. Water the plant a day before repotting to reduce stress
2. Gently remove the fern from its current pot
3. Inspect roots and trim any that are dead or rotting
4. Place a layer of fresh potting mix in the new pot
5. Position the plant so that the rhizomes are at or slightly below the soil surface
6. Fill in with potting mix, gently firming it around the roots
7. Water thoroughly and place in a shaded area for a few days to recover
Root pruning is generally not necessary for Rabbit’s Foot Ferns unless they’ve become severely root-bound. If needed, trim no more than 1/3 of the roots.
To minimize stress during transition:
– Avoid fertilizing for a month after repotting
– Maintain higher humidity around the plant
– Keep it out of direct sunlight and protect from drafts
– Monitor closely for signs of stress and adjust care as needed
Pruning
Best Time for Pruning
Spring or early summer, at the beginning of the growing season.
Frequency
As needed, typically 1-2 times per year.
Purpose
To remove dead or yellowing fronds, control size, and promote bushier growth.
Tools Needed
- Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears
- Rubbing alcohol for sterilizing tools
Step-by-Step Pruning Guide
- Sterilize your pruning tools with rubbing alcohol to prevent disease spread.
- Identify dead, yellowing, or damaged fronds.
- Cut these fronds at the base, as close to the rhizome as possible.
- If the plant is overgrown, trim back some of the longer fronds to maintain shape.
- Avoid cutting into the rhizomes unless dividing the plant.
- Remove any debris from the pot to prevent fungal growth.
Aftercare
After pruning, water the plant lightly and place it in a humid area with indirect light. Avoid fertilizing for a few weeks to allow the plant to recover.
Special Considerations
Be cautious not to over-prune, as this can stress the plant. Never remove more than 1/3 of the plant’s foliage at once. The furry rhizomes are a key feature of this fern and should not be pruned unless they’re damaged or diseased.
Blooming
Rabbit’s Foot Ferns do not produce flowers. As a fern, it reproduces via spores, which are typically produced year-round. The spores are located on the undersides of mature fronds in small, brown structures called sori. While not a blooming plant, the fern’s attractive foliage provides year-round interest.
Pests and Diseases
Pests
Common issues
Scale insects
Mealybugs
Spider mites
Symptoms
Scale: Small, brown, shell-like bumps on fronds and stems
Mealybugs: White, cottony masses in leaf axils and undersides of fronds
Spider mites: Fine webbing on fronds, stippling on leaves, overall plant appears dull
Treatment
Isolate infected plants to prevent spread
For minor infestations, remove pests manually with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol
Use insecticidal soap or neem oil for larger infestations, applying weekly until pests are gone
Increase humidity and improve air circulation to prevent future infestations
Diseases
Common issues
Root rot
Leaf spot
Rhizome rot
Symptoms
Root rot: Wilting despite moist soil, yellowing fronds, mushy roots
Leaf spot: Brown or black spots on fronds, often with yellow halos
Rhizome rot: Soft, brown areas on rhizomes, fronds yellowing and dying
Treatment
Root rot: Remove affected parts, repot in fresh, well-draining soil, and reduce watering
Leaf spot: Remove affected fronds, improve air circulation, avoid overhead watering
Rhizome rot: Cut away infected parts, dust cuts with fungicide, repot in fresh soil
For all diseases, ensure proper watering practices and avoid overwatering
Use a fungicide specifically formulated for ferns if problems persist
Special Features
Rabbit’s Foot Ferns are known for their unique, furry rhizomes that resemble rabbit’s feet, giving the plant its common name. These rhizomes grow along the soil surface and can be allowed to trail over the edges of pots, creating an interesting visual effect. The fern’s delicate, lacy fronds provide a soft, tropical appearance, making it an excellent choice for hanging baskets or as a statement piece in interior design.
Plant Benefits
While Rabbit’s Foot Ferns are not typically used for herbal or pharmaceutical purposes, they do offer some benefits. Like many houseplants, they can help purify indoor air by removing small amounts of toxins. They also increase humidity in their immediate surroundings, which can be beneficial in dry indoor environments. Additionally, the presence of plants like the Rabbit’s Foot Fern has been shown to have positive effects on mental health, reducing stress and improving mood.
Additional Information
Rabbit’s Foot Ferns are excellent plants for mounting on boards or growing in hanging baskets due to their unique rhizomes. They are often used in terrariums or dish gardens due to their love of high humidity. In some cultures, these ferns are considered good luck plants. While they are primarily grown as houseplants in most regions, they can be grown outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 10-12.
Life Cycle
Rabbit’s Foot Ferns are perennial plants with a relatively slow growth rate. They reproduce via spores, which are produced on the undersides of mature fronds. In their natural habitat, these spores are dispersed by wind and grow into new plants when they land in suitable conditions. As houseplants, they can live for many years with proper care. Their growth is most active during spring and summer, slowing down in fall and winter. Regular division every few years can help maintain the plant’s health and vigor, as well as produce new plants.
Are Rabbit's Foot Fern Poisonous, Toxic
Rabbit’s Foot Ferns are generally considered non-toxic to humans, cats, and dogs. However, ingestion of any plant material can potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset in pets or children. While severe poisoning is unlikely, it’s always best to keep plants out of reach of pets and small children. If ingestion occurs, monitor for symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare professional or veterinarian. To prevent accidental ingestion, place the plant in a location that’s inaccessible to pets and children, and educate family members about not consuming houseplants.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water my Rabbit’s Foot Fern?
Water your Rabbit’s Foot Fern when the top inch of soil feels dry. This usually means watering once or twice a week, but frequency can vary based on environmental conditions.
Is Rabbit’s Foot Fern toxic to pets?
No, Rabbit’s Foot Ferns are generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs. However, it’s always best to prevent pets from chewing on any houseplants.
How much light does a Rabbit’s Foot Fern need?
Rabbit’s Foot Ferns prefer bright, indirect light. They should be placed near a north or east-facing window, away from direct sunlight which can scorch their fronds.
How do I propagate a Rabbit’s Foot Fern?
Rabbit’s Foot Ferns can be propagated by division or by rooting rhizome cuttings. Division is typically easier and more successful for most home gardeners.
Why are the fronds on my Rabbit’s Foot Fern turning brown?
Brown fronds can be caused by several factors including low humidity, overwatering, underwatering, or exposure to direct sunlight. Check your care routine and adjust accordingly.
How often should I fertilize my Rabbit’s Foot Fern?
Fertilize your Rabbit’s Foot Fern every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength.
Can Rabbit’s Foot Ferns be grown outdoors?
Rabbit’s Foot Ferns can be grown outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 10-12. In cooler climates, they’re best grown as indoor plants or moved outdoors only during warm months.
How do I increase humidity for my Rabbit’s Foot Fern?
You can increase humidity by misting the plant regularly, placing it on a pebble tray filled with water, grouping it with other plants, or using a room humidifier.
How often should I repot my Rabbit’s Foot Fern?
Rabbit’s Foot Ferns typically need repotting every 2-3 years, or when they outgrow their current pot. Spring is the best time for repotting.
Why are the rhizomes on my Rabbit’s Foot Fern turning brown?
Brown rhizomes can be a sign of overwatering or poor drainage. Ensure your pot has drainage holes and the soil isn’t waterlogged. If the problem persists, check for signs of rhizome rot.
Can I grow Rabbit's Foot Fern in my indoor space
Difficulty
Intermediate
Size
Medium
Light
Medium
Water
Medium
Flowering
No
Pet Safe
Yes
Air Purifier
Low
Davallia fejeensis botanical details
Common Name
Rabbit’s Foot Fern
Other Common Names
Hare’s Foot Fern, Squirrel’s Foot Fern, Ball Fern
Botanical Name
Davallia fejeensis
Native Area
Fiji and other South Pacific islands
Family Name
Davalliaceae
Plant Type
Perennial epiphytic fern
Genus
Davallia
Kingdom
Plantae
Photo Gallery
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Plant Puns and Jokes
Why did the Rabbit’s Foot Fern refuse to go on a date? It was too frond of being single!