Davallia fejeensis (Hare's Foot Fern)

Davallia fejeensis originates from Fiji, the Austral Islands, and several Micronesian islands in Oceania. This fern grows exclusively epiphytically, which is why its rhizomes should never be buried deeply in the substrate when grown in pots. The rhizomes are covered with white-gray scales, giving them a fuzzy appearance. Because their appearance, with a little imagination, resembles rabbit's feet, the fern is also called rabbit's foot fern. They usually creep out of the pot in large numbers and form the individual, long-stalked fronds at loose intervals. The fronds are finely pinnate and extremely delicate, making high humidity absolutely essential.

A very similar species is the closely related tarantula fern ( Humata tyermannii ), which is much more commonly offered for sale. However, specimens supposedly offered as Davallia fejeensis are usually Humata tyermannii , sold under the incorrect scientific name. Distinguishing between them is extremely difficult unless they are placed side by side. However, when they can be compared directly, the difference is obvious: the rabbit's foot fern has much more delicate, soft, and thin fronds. The fronds of the tarantula fern are much harder and leathery. Therefore, we recommend the rabbit's foot fern for terrariums! It requires much higher humidity for its delicate fronds!

We offer both types, and they are correctly identified by us.