Hare's Foot Fern
davallia solida
Also known as: ["Hare's Foot Fern","Rabbit's Foot Fern"]
Overview
A species of epiphytic fern with distinctive furry rhizomes and delicate, lacy fronds.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","shade tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Polypodiopsida |
| Order: | Polypodiales |
| Family: | Davalliaceae |
| Genus: | Davallia |
| Botanical Name: | Davallia solida |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a humid room or shaded outdoor garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity, especially in dry environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic mix with organic matter (e.g., peat-based with perlite).
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 1–2 months or when fronds decline.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than 20% of foliage at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to lower light in winter to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to brighter light; protect from direct sun; place in a spot with filtered light for best growth.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light or partial shade
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains for direct light; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid overwatering; ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-draining, humus-rich potting mix
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates 50–85°F (10–29°C); prefers stable temperatures year-round.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; keep away from vents; maintain consistent room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Optional, but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 4–6 weeks; new growth in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, humidity dome, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip individual fronds at the base; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or yellowing fronds to maintain appearance and health; shape as needed.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; remove dead/damaged fronds; avoid over-pruning; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply until it drains from the bottom, focusing on the root zone; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues; water in the morning for optimal absorption.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate peat moss for acidity; use orchid bark for aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme cold or heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid drafts; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or dehydration in excessive heat, especially with low humidity.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growing season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicDavallia solida is not toxic to cats. The plant does not pose a significant risk to feline health.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicDavallia solida is not toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain known compounds that are harmful to canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicDavallia solida, commonly known as hare's-foot fern, is not considered toxic to humans. It is generally safe for ingestion in small quantities, though it is not typically consumed as food.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Davallia solida?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, typically once a week, ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot.
Q: Does this fern need direct sunlight?
A: No, it prefers bright, indirect light or partial shade; direct sunlight can scorch its fronds.
Q: Can I grow Davallia solida outdoors?
A: It can be grown outdoors in shaded, humid environments, but it is primarily suited for indoor cultivation in temperate climates.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Davalliaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright, indirect light or part |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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