Rabbits Foot Fern Davallia solida var. fejeensis

Rabbit's foot fern is a tropical, epiphytic, herbaceous perennial fern in the polypody family (Polypodiaceae). Its origin is Fiji and the Caroline Islands. The species epithet means “solid, dense,” referring perhaps to the dense covering of fuzzy hairs on the rhizome that give this fern its common name. The varietal epithet means “of Fiji.”

This fern is more tolerant of low humidity than other ferns but looks better when grown in high humidity. Water enough to keep the potting mixture moist but allow the top 1/2 inch to dry out between waterings. Plant in a peat-based potting mixture and give it good indirect lighting with temperatures above 55 degrees Fahrenheit. It grows well in containers or hanging baskets. 

The fuzzy rhizomes creep over the potting medium and spill over the pot developing fronds at intervals. That is a normal trait. The rhizomes that hang over a pot look like rabbits’ feet. To propagate, take rhizome tip cuttings of 2 to 3 inches with one or two fronds still attached. Place cuttings on a potting medium and pin down with a small wire loop. Moisten the potting medium and place the container in a plastic bag in a location with bright light. When you see additional fronds forming you will know it is well-rooted.

This fern is intolerant of cold weather; therefore, it is grown as a houseplant in hardiness zones below 10. 

Quick ID Hints:

• Densely soft hairs covering long creeping rhizomes
• Multi-pinnate fronds
• Pinnae ovate to deltoid

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No significant problems, but monitor for common houseplant pests such as spider mites, mealybugs and scale insects.

VIDEO Created by NC State Extension's Homegrown series featuring Mark Weathington, Director of JC Raulston Arboretum.