Plant Details

• Botanical NameFern - Rabbits Foot (commonly grown as Davallia fejeensis; often labeled Rabbit’s Foot Fern)
• Common NameRabbit’s Foot Fern, Hare’s Foot Fern
• Size & GrowthFronds typically 12–24 in. tall; spreads 18–36 in. over time as rhizomes creep over pot edges. Moderate clumping and trailing habit.
• Hardiness ZonesUSDA 10–12 outdoors; grow as a houseplant elsewhere. Protect below 55°F (13°C); avoid frost.
• Foliage TypeEvergreen fern; finely divided, lacy, bright- to medium‑green fronds arising from fuzzy surface rhizomes.
• Bloom TimeNone – ferns do not flower; reproduce by spores on frond undersides seasonally in good conditions.
• Growth RateModerate indoors; faster in warm, humid, bright-filtered sites during spring–summer.
• Light RequirementsBright, indirect light or dappled shade. Gentle morning sun is fine; avoid harsh midday sun. Tolerates medium light indoors.
• Attracts PollinatorsNo – non‑flowering fern; not a pollinator plant, though its fronds offer shelter in mixed plantings.
• Indoor FriendlyExcellent houseplant with consistent humidity and bright, filtered light; ideal for bathrooms and kitchens with daylight.
• Container FriendlyYes – thrives in shallow, wide pots or hanging baskets where rhizomes can creep over edges.
• Deer ResistantGenerally deer resistant; fronds are usually ignored when grown outdoors in suitable zones.
• Pet WarningNon‑toxic to cats and dogs. Ingestion of large amounts may cause mild stomach upset—discourage chewing on rhizomes.
• FragrantNo fragrance; grown for unique texture and form rather than scent.
• Cut FlowerNot ideal as a cut foliage; fronds are delicate and short‑lived once cut.
• Grows Well WithGrows Well With Maidenhair fern, Boston fern, Fittonia, Peperomia, Calathea/Goeppertia, Pothos, Philodendron, mosses, small bromeliads.

Care Tips

• Planting InstructionsUse a shallow, wide pot or hanging basket. Position rhizomes on the surface and secure with a thin layer of sphagnum; do not bury. Gently firm media around existing roots.
• Soil MoistureKeep evenly moist but never soggy. Allow the top 0.5 in (1–1.5 cm) to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter; avoid complete dry‑outs.
• Soil TypeLoose, airy, and fast‑draining mix: 50% peat/coco, 25% fine orchid bark, 15% perlite, 10% compost. Slightly acidic pH 5.5–6.5. Topdress with sphagnum around rhizomes if needed.
• HumidityPrefers 50–70% relative humidity. Use a pebble tray, room humidifier, or group plants. Light misting is fine; avoid drenching rhizomes repeatedly.
• Pruning InstructionsClip yellowing or damaged fronds at the base with clean shears. Avoid cutting healthy rhizomes; lightly groom with a soft brush to remove debris and dust.
• Winter CareKeep above 55°F (13°C). Provide bright, indirect light away from drafts and heat vents. Water less frequently but do not allow the root zone to dry completely.
• Planting DepthSet the crown and rhizomes on the surface or just kissing the surface; never buried. Roots sit within the mix beneath the exposed rhizomes.
• FertilizationLight feeder. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer at 1/4 strength every 4–6 weeks in spring–summer. Flush the mix occasionally to prevent salt buildup. Hold fertilizer in winter.
• Special CareRotate for even growth; repot every 2–3 years to refresh mix. Propagate by carefully dividing rhizomes in spring. Monitor for mealybugs/scale; treat early with gentle wipes or horticultural soap.