Humata tyermannii (tarantula fern)

Humata tyermannii originates from India and Southeast Asia. This fern grows exclusively epiphytically, which is why its rhizomes should never be buried deeply in the potting mix when grown in containers. The rhizomes are covered with white-gray scales, giving them a fuzzy appearance. Because their appearance, with a little imagination, resembles the hairy legs of a tarantula, this fern is also called the tarantula fern. They usually creep out of the pot in large numbers and form the individual, long-stalked fronds at loose intervals.

A very similar species is the closely related rabbit's foot fern ( Davallia fejeensis ), which is much less frequently offered for sale. Specimens supposedly offered as Davallia fejeensis are usually actually 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 much recommend the tarantula fern as a houseplant! It does not require such high humidity as the rabbit's foot fern and grows without problems even at "normal" humidity levels of approximately 50% to 60%.

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