Rabbit Foot Air Purifier Fern Plant

Davallia fejeensis

Family

Davalliaceae

Origin

Fiji

Description

Davallia fejeensis is an epiphytic fern, which means it grows easily on trees and rocks. It gets its nutrients from the rain, air, and debris that falls down from the forest canopy. These growing conditions make it a wonderful houseplant option.

Rabbit’s foot fern plant gets its name from the furry rhizomes that grow on top of the soil and resemble a rabbit’s foot. The rhizomes often grow over the side of the pot, adding an extra dimension to the plant. Functional as well as decorative, the rhizomes absorb moisture and nutrients as they crawl across the moist soil. The rhizomes can grow quite long and over time they take on a spider-like appearance.

Environment

Rabbit’s foot ferns like bright but indirect sunlight, such as that found near a window with an eastern exposure. 

Water the plants lightly but often to keep the surface of the soil lightly moist. Daily misting helps keep the surface rhizomes from drying out. Light foliage doesn’t hold moisture as well as thick foliage, so the plants need frequent misting and an occasional shower to keep them from drying out. Rabbit’s foot fern care should also include watering the plant with a liquid houseplant fertilizer mixed at half strength.

Rabbit’s foot ferns need repotting about every two years, and the best time to repot is in spring. Mix regular potting soil half-and-half with sand to create an ideal medium for rabbit’s foot ferns. This is an excellent time to divide large plants.

Landscape Use

As an indoor fern, it is perhaps best for pedestals or hanging baskets. Locations in or near bathrooms or kitchens may have better humidity..