Davallia canariensis
Davallia canariensis
Canary Island hare’s foot fern
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Taxonomy
Family Polypodiaceae · Genus Davallia
Description
Davallia canariensis, the Canary Island hare’s foot fern, is a charming epiphytic fern known for its fuzzy, creeping rhizomes that perch over the pot’s edge. It thrives in bright, dappled light with steady moisture and humidity, making a striking hanging or shelf specimen.
Common Names
Canary Island hare’s foot fernHare’s foot fernDeer’s foot fernRabbit’s foot fern (often used)
Context
nativeRegion
Macaronesia (Canary Islands, Madeira) and nearby Atlantic coasts of Iberia and NW Africa.
usdaZones
9–11 (outdoors in mild, frost-free climates; otherwise as a houseplant).
companionPlants
Platycerium bifurcatum (Staghorn Fern), Asplenium nidus (Bird’s Nest Fern), Nephrolepis exaltata (Boston Fern), Adiantum spp. (Maidenhair Fern), Bromeliads, Mosses
culturalUses
Ornamental for hanging baskets, mounted displays, shade gardens, and interiorscaping; valued for its decorative, fuzzy rhizomes.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright, indirect light or dappled shade; avoid harsh midday sun. Tolerates medium light with slower growth.
WateringKeep evenly moist but not soggy. Water when the top 10–20% of mix feels barely dry; avoid soaking the exposed rhizomes. Use rain/filtered water if possible.
SoilLoose, well-draining, high-organic mix (e.g., fine orchid bark + coco/peat + perlite). Do not bury the rhizomes. Can be mounted on wood with sphagnum.
FertilizerBalanced, half-strength every 4–6 weeks in spring–summer; reduce or stop in fall–winter.
HumidityPrefers 50–70%+. Provide a humid spot, pebble tray, or room humidifier; ensure good airflow.
TemperatureIdeal 60–80°F (16–27°C). Protect from chills; avoid sustained temps below 50°F (10°C). Outdoors only in frost-free zones.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitEpiphytic/epilithic fern with creeping, furry rhizomes and finely divided arching fronds.
Mature SizeFronds 12–24 in (30–60 cm); spread 12–36 in (30–90 cm) as rhizomes extend.
Growth RateModerate under good light and humidity.
BloomingFerns do not bloom; reproduces by spores (sori) on frond undersides.
DormancyNo true dormancy; growth slows in winter or cool conditions.
Propagation
MethodsRhizome division, Spores
DifficultyEasy by rhizome division; moderate to difficult from spores.
Best SeasonSpring to early summer for division; sow spores in warm, stable conditions.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningTrim spent or yellowing fronds at the base. Do not cut or bury healthy rhizomes; allow them to drape.
RepottingEvery 1–2 years in spring when crowded. Use shallow, wide pots or mount. Keep rhizomes on top of the medium.
Pests & DiseasesWatch for scale, mealybugs, and spider mites. Overwatering can cause rhizome/root rot; improve drainage and airflow to prevent fungal issues.
ToxicityGenerally considered non-toxic to pets and people.
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