The Davana fern, commonly known as the Rabbit’s Foot Fern, belongs to the Davallia genus, particularly Davallia fejeensis. This perennial plant is recognizable by its thick, creeping rhizomes that grow horizontally over the surface of the medium, covered in fine, brown, hair-like scales, which gives the plant its common name. Originating in the tropical and subtropical regions of the Pacific, this fern is naturally an epiphyte, meaning it anchors itself to the bark of trees or rock crevices rather than growing in the ground. This epiphytic nature dictates its care requirements, demanding high humidity and a highly aerated environment that mimics its native habitat. The delicate, lacy fronds emerge from these fuzzy rhizomes, creating a lush, arching display.
Essential Environmental Conditions
Providing the right light exposure is essential. This plant requires bright, indirect light to flourish, which encourages robust frond growth. Direct sunlight should be avoided, as it can easily scorch the delicate foliage, resulting in permanent brown spots. Ideal placement involves an east-facing window for gentle morning sun, or setting the plant back several feet from a south or west-facing window to filter stronger afternoon light.
Temperature stability is important, as this tropical fern thrives in a typical household range between 65–75°F (18–24°C). The plant should be protected from sudden temperature drops and cold drafts, especially those below 55°F (13°C), which can cause the foliage to wilt and the plant to enter a state of shock. Consistent warmth prevents stress and supports the continuous production of new fronds throughout the active growing season.
Atmospheric moisture is the most important environmental factor for Davana ferns. As an epiphyte, the plant is adapted to absorb moisture directly from the humid air. Maintain a relative humidity level of 50% or higher indoors. To boost ambient moisture, place the pot on a shallow tray filled with pebbles and water, ensuring the pot itself does not sit directly in the water. Grouping the Davana fern with other houseplants or using a dedicated humidifier can also create a localized microclimate.
Planting Medium and Container Selection
The epiphytic growth habit means the Davana fern requires a planting medium that offers exceptional aeration and drainage, vastly different from standard dense potting soil. A suitable substrate should be light and porous to prevent waterlogging around the rhizomes and fine roots. Specialized mixes often incorporate components like orchid bark, perlite, and coconut coir to achieve the necessary balance of moisture retention and rapid drainage. Wide, shallow pots or hanging baskets are preferred over deep containers, as they provide ample surface area for the creeping rhizomes to explore.
A crucial aspect of potting is the placement of the fuzzy rhizomes. These structures must rest directly on top of the substrate and should never be buried beneath the growing medium. Burying the rhizomes traps moisture and prevents necessary air circulation, leading to stem rot and the subsequent decline of the plant. Allow the rhizomes to sprawl naturally over the edges of the pot, which is their intended growth pattern.
Routine Maintenance: Watering and Feeding
Consistent moisture management requires the medium to remain evenly moist without ever becoming saturated or soggy. The most effective watering technique is the “soak and drain” method, where the pot is thoroughly watered until excess runs freely from the drainage holes. Allow the top inch of the medium to dry slightly before the next watering. This practice ensures adequate hydration while preventing the anaerobic conditions that cause root rot.
The plant’s sensitivity to water quality means that using distilled water, rainwater, or filtered tap water is preferable to hard tap water, which contains mineral salts that can accumulate and burn the delicate frond tips. During the cooler winter months, when the plant’s growth naturally slows down, reduce the frequency of watering slightly. The goal during this period is still to prevent the medium from drying out completely.
Fertilization should be approached with caution due to the fern’s epiphytic nature and fine root system. These plants are accustomed to receiving nutrients from decaying organic matter and rain, not rich soil. Apply a balanced, water-soluble liquid fertilizer at a highly diluted strength, typically one-quarter to one-half the recommended rate, only once a month. Maintain this light feeding schedule during the spring and summer months, and suspend fertilization entirely during the fall and winter dormancy period.
Troubleshooting Pests and Propagation
Davana ferns can occasionally attract common houseplant pests, particularly in low-humidity environments. Scale insects, mealybugs, and spider mites may attach themselves to the fronds and rhizomes. Initial treatment involves physically wiping them off with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. For more persistent infestations, a gentle application of neem oil or insecticidal soap can be used to treat the entire plant surface.
Browning of frond tips is a frequent non-pest issue, typically a symptom of either insufficient humidity or the buildup of mineral salts from hard tap water. Increasing the ambient humidity will often correct this issue. If the problem persists, switch to purified water and occasionally leach the soil by flushing it with a large volume of clean water to remove accumulated salts.
The most straightforward method for propagation is through the division of the rhizomes, which can be done during the spring or summer. Select a healthy portion of the rhizome that includes at least one active growth point and a few attached fronds, then use a clean, sharp knife to sever the section.
Propagation Steps
The severed rhizome piece should be placed directly on top of fresh, well-draining potting medium in a new container. The cutting does not need to be buried. It only requires firm contact with the moist substrate to encourage new roots to grow down and anchor the new plant.