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Description
Davallia Trichomanoides, commonly known as the Hare’s Foot Fern, is a species of fern that belongs to the Davalliaceae family. It is native to the subtropical and tropical regions of Asia, including China, Japan, and Taiwan. This fern is an epiphyte, meaning it grows on other plants and trees, and can also be found growing on rocks and soil. It has a unique appearance, with its furry rhizomes that resemble a hare’s foot, hence its common name.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Davalliaceae |
| Genus | Davallia |
Appearance
The Hare’s Foot Fern has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other ferns. It has furry, creeping rhizomes that grow along the surface of other plants or rocks. These rhizomes can reach up to 1 meter in length and produce a cluster of fronds at the tip. The fronds are lance-shaped and can grow up to 20 cm in length. They are bright green in color and have a waxy texture. The underside of the fronds is covered with brownish, spore-producing structures called sori.
Care Guide
Taking care of Davallia Trichomanoides is relatively easy, making it a popular choice among plant enthusiasts. Here are some tips on how to care for this fern:Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.Fertilization: Feed the fern with a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month during the growing season.Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix that contains peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.Sunlight: Place the fern in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight as it can burn the fronds.Hardiness Zones: Davallia Trichomanoides is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Like any plant, the Hare’s Foot Fern is susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common ones:Pests: Spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects can infest the fern. Regularly inspect the plant and use insecticidal soap to control the infestation.Diseases: The fern is prone to leaf spot, a fungal disease that causes brown spots on the fronds. Remove affected leaves and avoid overhead watering to prevent the spread of the disease.
Habitat
Davallia Trichomanoides is native to the subtropical and tropical regions of Asia, where it grows as an epiphyte on other plants and trees, and can also be found growing on rocks and soil. It prefers moist, humid environments and can be found in forests, along streams and waterfalls, and in other shaded areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Davallia Trichomanoides be grown outdoors?
A: Yes, it can be grown outdoors in USDA zones 9-11.Q: How often should I water my Hare’s Foot Fern?
A: Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.Q: Can I propagate Davallia Trichomanoides?
A: Yes, you can propagate the fern by dividing the rhizomes or by spores.Q: Does the Hare’s Foot Fern require a lot of sunlight?
A: No, it prefers bright, indirect light and can be damaged by direct sunlight.
Related Plants
Here are some other ferns that are related to Davallia Trichomanoides:- Davallia mariesii- Davallia fejeensis- Davallia solida- Davallia canariensis- Davallia pyxidata
References
– “Davallia trichomanoides.” Flora of China, www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=200003266.- “Hare’s Foot Fern.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c839.
