Rabbit's foot fern (Davallia solida)
Care, watering, light and tips for Rabbit's foot fern on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Davalliaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Rabbit's foot fern
Davallia solida, commonly known as 'Giant Hare's-foot Fern', is a fascinating epiphytic or lithophytic fern distinguished by its fuzzy, creeping rhizomes that resemble a hare's foot. Its fronds are large, triangular, and finely divided, creating an airy and elegant texture. It is ideal for hanging baskets or as an accent plant on logs or rocks in humid terrariums.
Native range
Polynesia, Malaysia, and northern Australia
Care tips
It requires bright, indirect light; avoid intense direct sunlight which can scorch its fronds. Keep the substrate consistently moist but not waterlogged, allowing the top layer to dry slightly between waterings, and ensure high ambient humidity. Use a well-draining and airy substrate, such as an orchid or epiphytic fern mix. A common mistake is allowing the rhizomes to dry out completely or overwatering, which can lead to rot.
How to save a dying Rabbit's foot fern
- Warning signs
- Dry, crispy fronds, shriveled rhizomes, brown tips. Rapid foliage loss.
- First aid
- Increase humidity. Mist fronds and lightly moisten substrate. Move from direct sun.
- What kills it
- Dry air and lack of consistent humidity. Completely dry soil for too long. Direct sun exposure.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes! It's resilient. With proper humidity and watering, it will sprout from rhizomes. Be patient.