Botanical family: Davalliaceae

Davallia sp.

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The 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.

Growing a rabbit's foot fern houseplant in a hanging basket shows off the furry rhizomes to their best advantage. The rhizomes can grow quite long and over time they take on a spider-like appearance. Never bury the rhizomes under the soil however, as this encourages rot. Even with the best of care, you may occasionally lose some of the older fronds. This is normal and not an indication that you have done anything wrong.

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

This species has gracefully arching fronds that grow 18 to 20 inches long. They are spaced 2 inches apart on a creeping rhizome. Also, this surface rambling rhizome is covered with pale brown papery scales.

Selected species:

Davallia canariensis - Rabbits Foot Fern, Hare's Foot Fern

Davallia tyermanii (Humata tyermannii) - White Rabbit's Foot Fern, Silver Hare's Foot Fern, Bears Paw Fern

Humata heterophylla, Davallia heterophylla

Humata heterophylla is a low growing, creeping, epiphytic fern species, it grows and works well in terrariums, vivariums, and orchidariums, where, providing this fern receives enough moisture, it can rather beautifully cover the base, or the sides and background.

Nephrolepis duffii, Nephrolepis cordifolia Duffii

Small light green rounded leaves on thin stems great textural interest for shade container plantings.

Nephrolepis falcata furcans, Nephrolepis biserrata var. furcans

The most popular form is known as N. falcata 'Furcans'. Fronds may grow to eight feet and are best displayed by planting in a large basket. Tropical to semi-tropical; Terrestrial, Epiphytic.

Nephrolepis sp.

Nephrolepis is a genus of about 30 species of ferns in the family Davalliaceae (included in Lomariopsidaceae in some classifications).

Nephrolepis species are frost tender but are easily grown in mild areas in a position in full shade or partshade with moist humus-rich soil and steady high humidity. They are widely cultivated as indoor plants. In cooler climates, if they are grown in heated indoor situations, ensure they receive plenty of bright filtered light and ample water. They can be propagated by division or from spores.

It is also one of the best over all plants at removing gaseous toxins from the air, including formaldehyde.

Species and varieties:

Nephrolepis biserrata

Nephrolepis duffii

Nephrolepis exaltata

Nephrolepis falcata