The fuzzy fern (Davallia fejeensis) is a captivating houseplant known by common names like Rabbit’s Foot Fern, Squirrel’s Foot Fern, or Deer’s Foot Fern. Its distinctive feature is the creeping, fuzzy rhizomes that grow on the soil surface, resembling a furry animal’s foot. These charming rhizomes, combined with delicate, lacy fronds, give it significant ornamental value and an intriguing textural element for any plant collection.
Fuzzy Fern Care Essentials
Fuzzy ferns thrive in bright, indirect light, mimicking their natural understory habitat. An east or north-facing window provides suitable illumination. Direct sunlight can scorch delicate fronds, causing brown, crispy edges. Too little light results in sparse growth.
Maintain consistent moisture in the growing medium. The soil should remain evenly damp but never waterlogged, as excessive moisture leads to root rot. Allow the top inch of soil to dry slightly before rewatering to prevent overwatering. Ensure the pot has drainage holes.
Fuzzy ferns prefer high humidity and stable, warm temperatures, typical of their tropical origin. An ideal temperature range is 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C). To increase humidity, place the plant on a pebble tray filled with water, ensuring the pot does not sit directly in the water. Grouping them with other plants can also create a localized humid microclimate.
The growing medium should be well-draining, airy, and rich in organic matter. A suitable mix includes orchid bark, perlite, and peat moss or coco coir, providing aeration and moisture retention. A slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0 to 7.0) is preferred.
During the active growing season (spring and summer), fuzzy ferns benefit from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half or quarter strength, every two to four weeks. This provides nutrients for frond and rhizome development. During fall and winter, withhold feeding.
Propagating Fuzzy Fern
Propagating fuzzy ferns is most effective through rhizome division. This involves separating a section of mature rhizome with at least one or two fronds attached. Lift the plant and identify suitable rhizome sections. Use clean, sharp shears to cut, ensuring each new section has healthy roots and fronds.
Place the separated rhizome section on top of fresh, well-draining potting mix in a new container. Do not bury the rhizomes; they prefer to grow along the soil surface. Maintain consistent moisture and high humidity to encourage root establishment. While spore propagation is possible, it is more challenging for home growers and yields inconsistent results.
Common Fuzzy Fern Issues
Browning frond tips often signal insufficient humidity or inconsistent watering. Dry air causes fronds to dry out and turn crispy at the edges. Increasing humidity and establishing a regular watering schedule, keeping soil evenly moist, can help.
Yellowing fronds, especially on older growth, may indicate overwatering or nutrient deficiency. Overly wet soil deprives roots of oxygen, causing stress and discoloration. Allow the top soil layer to dry slightly between waterings, and ensure proper drainage. If the issue persists, a diluted application of balanced fertilizer may help.
Crispy fronds across the plant usually point to excessive light. Direct sunlight can quickly damage the sensitive foliage. Moving the fern to bright, indirect light prevents further scorching. Inspect fronds for pests like spider mites or mealybugs, which can cause discoloration and decline.
Displaying Your Fuzzy Fern
The fuzzy fern’s unique growth habit, with its surface-creeping rhizomes, lends itself to various display options. Hanging baskets are an excellent choice, allowing the rhizomes to cascade over the edges.
Mounting fuzzy ferns on wood or cork bark can mimic their natural epiphytic tendencies. This method showcases the rhizomes clinging to the surface, offering a distinctive display. Placing a fuzzy fern in a terrarium is also beneficial, as the enclosed environment helps maintain high humidity, creating a lush, miniature ecosystem.