Commonly known as: Rabbit Foot Fern
Botanical name: Davallia fejeensis
Some plants catch your attention because of their leaves. Rabbit Foot Fern does it because of its feet.
The soft, fuzzy rhizomes slowly crawl across the surface of the pot before spilling over the sides, giving the impression that a tiny rabbit is hiding beneath the foliage. These unusual “feet” are what make Rabbit Foot Fern one of the most distinctive and conversation-worthy ferns you can own.
The rhizomes aren’t just decorative either. They store water and nutrients, helping the plant cope with short dry spells while it continues to spread. As the fern matures, more of these furry rhizomes emerge, gradually covering the surface of the pot and creating an even more interesting display.
Above them, delicate bright green fronds create a soft, airy canopy that contrasts beautifully with the textured rhizomes below. The combination gives the plant a light, tropical appearance without becoming overly large, making it ideal for desks, shelves and smaller indoor spaces.
Native to the tropical islands of Fiji, Rabbit Foot Fern naturally grows attached to trees and rocks where its roots enjoy excellent airflow and consistent moisture. It appreciates bright, indirect light and evenly moist growing conditions but is surprisingly forgiving once established.
One important thing to remember is never to bury the furry rhizomes beneath the growing medium. They naturally grow on the surface and should remain exposed, where they become one of the plant’s most attractive features.
If you’re looking for a fern that’s a little different from the ordinary, Rabbit Foot Fern is guaranteed to become one of the most talked-about plants in your collection.
Rabbit Foot Fern Care Guide
Watering – How often should I water it?
Keep the growing medium lightly moist without allowing it to become waterlogged. Water when the surface begins to dry slightly, but don’t allow the plant to dry out completely. Reduce watering slightly during winter.
Light – Where should I place my Rabbit Foot Fern?
These ferns enjoys bright, indirect light. It also tolerates medium light but grows best when placed near a bright window out of direct afternoon sun.
Humidity – Does it need high humidity?
Yes. Like most ferns, they do appreciates moderate to high humidity. It adapts well to normal indoor conditions but produces healthier fronds when humidity is slightly higher.
Soil – What growing medium should I use?
A loose, well-aerated growing medium is ideal. I recommend Milled Bark Growing Medium, which provides excellent airflow while retaining enough moisture for healthy root growth. You can also incorporate Perlite if you’d like an even lighter mix. Always keep the furry rhizomes sitting on top of the growing medium rather than burying them.
Feeding – How should I fertilise it?
Feed every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer using Grobest Organic Fertiliser. If you’d like slightly faster growth, you can also use Novatec Soluble Fertiliser during the growing season.
Repotting – When should I repot?
Repot every 2–3 years or once the rhizomes have spread across the entire surface of the pot. Refresh with Milled Bark Growing Medium and incorporate TerraPlus Natura N together with Controlled Release Fertiliser. Make sure the rhizomes remain exposed after repotting.
Pests – What should I look out for?
These Ferns are generally trouble-free but can occasionally attract spider mites or scale insects if grown in very dry conditions. Maintaining good humidity and airflow helps keep the plant healthy.
Temperature – What’s the ideal temperature?
Rabbit Foot Fern grows best between 16°C and 26°C. Avoid temperatures below 10°C and keep it away from cold drafts and heaters that can dry the foliage.
FAQ’s
Q: Why are the furry roots growing over the pot?
Those furry growths are actually rhizomes, not roots. They’re completely normal and one of the plant’s most distinctive features.
Q: Should I bury the furry rhizomes?
No. They should always remain on top of the growing medium. Burying them can cause them to rot.
Q: Is Rabbit Foot Fern difficult to care for?
Not at all. Keep the growing medium lightly moist, provide bright indirect light and avoid letting the plant dry out completely.
Q: Can I grow it in a hanging basket?
Absolutely. Rabbit Foot Fern looks fantastic in hanging baskets where the furry rhizomes can naturally trail over the sides.
Q: Is Rabbit Foot Fern pet safe?
Yes. Rabbit Foot Fern (Davallia fejeensis) is considered non-toxic to cats and dogs, making it a great choice for pet-friendly homes.
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