Rabbit's Foot Fern Davallia solida var. fejeensis
ABOUT
Commonly known as the rabbit's foot fern, this plant is notable for its distinctive, furry rhizomes, which sprawly outwards, resembling a rabbit’s feet, hence the name. The rhizomes often spill over the side of the container in which the plant is grown, creating an intriguing look. Its fronds are delicate and finely divided, giving them a feathery appearance. They emerge upright and then arch gracefully as they mature, displaying an array of light to deep green. The overall impression is one of lushness and finely textured visual interest. The rabbit's foot fern exudes a woodland vibe, evoking an image of a fern-covered floor in a forest of dappled sunlight. It is a showy plant often used in hanging baskets or elevated pots to showcase its unique rhizomes and elegantly cascading fronds.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Davalliaceae.
Synonyms
Rabbit's Foot Fern, White Rabbit's Foot Fern.
Common names
Davallia elegans var. angustata, Davallia fejeensis, Davallia solida var. pyxidata, Humata fejeensis, Humata solida var. fejeensis.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as Rabbit's Foot Fern (Davallia solida var. fejeensis) is not generally considered toxic to humans. There is limited information about its toxicity, but it is commonly grown as a houseplant and not known for being harmful if touched or ingested. However, it is always recommended to exercise caution and keep plants out of reach of children who may ingest parts of the plant out of curiosity.
To pets
The Rabbit's Foot Fern (Davallia solida var. fejeensis) is generally considered non-toxic to pets. It is not known to cause harm if pets chew on or ingest the fronds or rhizomes of this plant. However, to prevent gastrointestinal upset or unexpected allergic reactions, it is wise to keep the plant away from pets. If you suspect your pet has ingested a large amount of the plant and is showing signs of illness, consult your veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Height
1 foot (30 cm)
Spread
2 feet (60 cm)
Plant type
Fern
Hardiness zones
11
Native area
Fiji
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Davallia solida var. fejeensis, also known as Rabbit's Foot Fern, has distinctive furry rhizomes and delicate fronds that provide a unique aesthetic for gardens and homes.
- Drought Tolerance: Rabbit's Foot Fern is relatively drought-tolerant once established, making it a suitable choice for gardeners in drier climates or those who prefer plants that require less frequent watering.
- Low Maintenance: This variety of fern requires minimal care, tolerating lower light levels and less frequent watering than many other houseplants, making it ideal for busy plant owners.
- Shade Tolerance: It's well-suited to shady areas in the garden, providing a lush green look where other plants might struggle due to lack of sunlight.
- Container Gardening: Rabbit's Foot Fern is great for growing in pots and hanging baskets, offering versatility in placement and ease of rearranging for aesthetic purposes.
- Ground Cover: When planted in the garden, it can serve as an attractive ground cover, filling in space with its dense fronds and helping to suppress weed growth.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Davallia solida var. fejeensis, also known as the Rabbit's Foot Fern, can be used in terrariums to create a lush, green backdrop that simulates a natural forest environment.
- This plant's unique, furry rhizomes can be incorporated into natural art projects or fairy gardens, contributing a whimsical, old-world charm.
- Rabbit's Foot Ferns can act as natural humidifiers in dry environments when grouped together due to their evapotranspiration process.
- The plant's rhizomes are sometimes used in traditional handicrafts, where they may be woven or included as decorative elements in small baskets or ornaments.
- When dried, the fronds of the Rabbit's Foot Fern can be used as a gentle filling for natural pillows or sachets.
- They can be utilized as educational tools in botany or horticulture programs to demonstrate epiphytic plant growth and care.
- These ferns can be used in photography or film as a way to add texture and depth to a tropical or woodland set design.
- Rabbit's Foot Ferns can serve as natural dividers in office spaces or studios, offering privacy while maintaining an open and airy feel.
- In larger public aquariums, dead or trimmings of Rabbit's Foot Ferns might be added to certain freshwater exhibits to simulate natural debris and to provide shelter for small fish or invertebrates.
- Their unique and attractive appearance makes them a good candidate for use in window displays or visual merchandising to create an inviting natural aesthetic.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant commonly known as Rabbit’s Foot Fern is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Rabbit’s Foot Fern is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: The robust nature of the Davallia solida var. fejeensis, commonly known as the Rabbit's Foot Fern, signifies the ability to thrive in challenging conditions, reflecting resilience in adversity.
- Protection: The furry rhizomes that resemble a rabbit's foot are often associated with luck and protective qualities, suggesting a symbolic shield against negative energies.
- Growth: This plant's tendency to spread and easily propagate symbolizes personal growth and the natural progression of life's journeys.
- Fortune: In line with many superstitions surrounding rabbits' feet as lucky charms, the Rabbit's Foot Fern is often seen as a symbol of good fortune and prosperity.
- Endurance: Given the Rabbit's Foot Fern's adaptability and hardiness, it represents endurance and the ability to withstand difficult situations over time.
WaterThe Rabbit's Foot Fern prefers to be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Water should be applied slowly at the base of the plant until it begins to seep out from the bottom of the pot, indicating that the soil is thoroughly moistened. Typically, this equates to about 8-16 ounces for a medium-sized pot, every week or so, depending on environmental conditions. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water, as it can lead to root rot. During winter months, reduce the frequency of watering as the plant’s growth slows down.
LightThe Rabbit's Foot Fern thrives best in bright, indirect light. A north or east-facing window where the light is filtered through curtains can provide an ideal spot. Direct sunlight should be avoided as it can scorch the delicate fronds of the fern. If light conditions are too low, the plant may become leggy and its growth could slow down.
TemperatureThe Rabbit's Foot Fern prefers a warm and consistent temperature range between 60°F and 75°F. It can tolerate a minimum temperature of 55°F but should be protected from drafts and sudden temperature changes. Ideally, maintain indoor temperatures within this range for the healthiest growth, avoiding exposure to temperatures below or higher as it can cause stress to the plant.
PruningPruning the Rabbit's Foot Fern is mainly for removing any brown or damaged fronds to maintain its aesthetic appeal and prevent potential disease spread. Pruning can be done any time of the year but is best done in spring or early summer to make way for new growth. The plant does not require frequent pruning; tidying up as needed will suffice.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFor Rabbit's Foot Fern, a well-draining soil mix is crucial, consisting of peat, perlite, and pine bark in equal parts. The ideal soil pH for this plant should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingRabbit's Foot Fern should be repotted every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate the growing rhizomes. Springtime is the best season to repot this fern.
Humidity & MistingRabbit's Foot Fern thrives in high humidity, ideally between 60%-80%. It benefits from regular misting or a humidifier to maintain these levels, especially in dry indoor environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Rabbit's Foot Fern in bright, indirect light and maintain high humidity.
Outdoor
Grow Rabbit's Foot Fern in shade to partial sun, protected from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
10-12 USDA
Life cycleCommonly known as the rabbit's foot fern, Davallia solida var. fejeensis begins its life cycle when spores, housed in structures called sporangia located on the undersides of leaves, are released into the environment. Upon finding a suitable moist habitat, the spores germinate to form a heart-shaped gametophyte—a tiny, green, and flat structure capable of photosynthesis and sexual reproduction. The gametophyte houses both the male and female reproductive organs, allowing for the fertilization of the egg by sperm in the presence of water. Once fertilized, the egg develops into a new sporophyte, which is the fern plant itself, initially emerging as a tiny frond from the gametophyte. As the plant matures, it produces rhizomes covered with brown, hair-like scales—resembling a rabbit's foot—from which fronds unfurl and grow upwards, achieving its distinctive fern appearance. The mature rabbit's foot fern will continue to grow and spread, producing new fronds and spores to complete the cycle, with individual ferns living many years under appropriate conditions.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Davallia solida var. fejeensis, commonly known as the Rabbit's Foot Fern, is often propagated through division, which is the most popular method. This process is typically carried out in the spring. To propagate by division, carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently separate the rhizomes, ensuring that each division has a section of the frond-bearing rhizomes along with some roots. These divisions can then be potted separately in a well-draining potting mix. It's essential to keep the newly potted divisions in a humid environment and maintain even moisture without overwatering. Ferns are sensitive to drought stress, but they are also prone to rot if waterlogged, so finding that balance is crucial for successful propagation.
