Contents
Description
Davallia Fejeensis, also known as the rabbit foot fern due to its furry rhizomes that resemble a rabbit’s foot, is a popular houseplant that belongs to the fern family. Native to Fiji, it is a tropical plant that can be grown indoors or outdoors in warm and humid climates. It is a slow-growing plant that can reach up to 1-2 feet in height and spread up to 2-3 feet in width.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Davalliaceae |
| Genus | Davallia |
Appearance
The Davallia Fejeensis has long, arching fronds that can grow up to 12-15 inches in length. The fronds are dark green in color and are composed of small leaflets that are 1-2 inches long. The rhizomes of the plant are fuzzy and brown in color, resembling a rabbit’s foot. The rhizomes grow on the surface of the soil and can be used for propagation. The plant does not produce flowers or seeds, but instead reproduces through spores that are produced on the undersides of the fronds.
Care Guide
Water: The Davallia Fejeensis prefers to be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water.
Fertilization: Feed the plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Do not fertilize during the dormant season (fall and winter).
Soil: The Davallia Fejeensis prefers a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite is recommended.
Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while too little light can cause the plant to become leggy.
Hardiness Zones: The Davallia Fejeensis is not frost-tolerant and is best grown in USDA hardiness zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Davallia Fejeensis is generally pest-free, but can be susceptible to mealybugs and scale insects. To prevent these pests, keep the plant clean and well-watered, and inspect it regularly for signs of infestation. The plant can also be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or if the soil is poorly draining.
Habitat
The Davallia Fejeensis is native to Fiji and is found growing in tropical rainforests. It grows as an epiphyte, meaning it grows on other plants and trees, absorbing nutrients and water from the air and rain.
Question and Answer
Q. Can the Davallia Fejeensis be grown outdoors?
A. Yes, the plant can be grown outdoors in warm and humid climates in USDA hardiness zones 10-12.
Q. How often should the Davallia Fejeensis be repotted?
A. The plant should be repotted every 1-2 years, or when it outgrows its pot.
Q. Can the fuzzy rhizomes of the Davallia Fejeensis be trimmed?
A. Yes, the rhizomes can be trimmed to control the size and shape of the plant. The trimmed rhizomes can also be used for propagation.
Q. How long does it take for the Davallia Fejeensis to grow?
A. The plant is slow-growing and can take several years to reach its full size.
Related Plants
- Davallia Canariensis
- Davallia Trichomanoides
- Davallia Tyermanii
References
- “Davallia fejeensis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b529.
- “Rabbit Foot Fern Care.” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/rabbit-foot-fern/rabbit-foot-fern-care.htm.
- “Davallia Fejeensis.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/rabbit-foot-fern-growing-profile-1902775.
