Home/Plants/Rabbit's Foot Fern

Rabbit's Foot Fern

Davallia fejeensis

houseplant

verifiedReviewed by the GreenScout Team

A charming trailing fern named for its fuzzy, rhizome-like stolons that resemble a rabbit's foot and dangle over pot edges. Native to tropical Fiji, it produces delicate, lacy fronds and is excellent for hanging baskets or elevated planters. This fern tolerates slightly drier conditions than many fern species.

Common Problems

Select the problem your Rabbit's Foot Fern is experiencing to get a treatment guide.

local_fire_department

Brown Tipschevron_right

water_drop

Underwateringchevron_right

compost

Root Rotchevron_right

hourglass_bottom

Slow Growthchevron_right

south_west

Dropping Leaveschevron_right

Care Guide

light_mode

Light

Bright, indirect light; tolerates moderate indirect light; protect from direct sun

water_drop

Water

Allow soil surface to dry slightly between waterings; water when top inch feels dry; reduce in winter

compost

Soil

Well-draining mix with peat moss or orchid bark; good drainage essential to prevent root issues

science

Fertiliser

Apply diluted balanced fertilizer every 3–4 weeks during growing season; minimal feeding in winter

thermometer

Temperature

Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates down to 55°F (13°C); avoid cold drafts

humidity_percentage

Humidity

Prefers 50–70% humidity; mist occasionally or use humidity tray; more tolerant of lower humidity than other ferns

Toxicity

check_circleSafe for Catscheck_circleSafe for Dogscheck_circleSafe for Children

Non-toxic to cats, dogs, and children; safe for all households

Common Diseases

filter_dramaRoot Rotchevron_right grainLeaf Spotchevron_right

Common Pests

pest_controlSpider Miteschevron_right coronavirusMealybugschevron_right hiveScale Insectschevron_right

Seasonal Care

local_floristspring

Resume regular watering and feeding as growth picks up.

light_modesummer

Peak growing season. Water and feed regularly.

ecoautumn

Reduce watering as growth slows. Stop heavy feeding.

ac_unitwinter

Minimal watering and feeding. Protect from frost if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the fuzzy things growing over the pot's edge on my Rabbit's Foot Fern?

Those are rhizome-like stolons covered in soft fuzz, resembling a rabbit's foot — they're the source of the plant's common name and are normal, healthy growth. Let them trail over the pot rather than burying them, as they help the fern spread.

Does Rabbit's Foot Fern need constant misting like other ferns?

It's more tolerant of lower humidity than many fern species, doing fine at 50–70% humidity with occasional misting rather than the constant moisture some ferns demand — and it's non-toxic, so it's safe for homes with pets or kids.