Deer-foot fern: complete guide

The Deer-foot fern (Davallia canariensis), also called Canary fern or Hare's-foot fern, is a fascinating tropical fern from the Polypodiaceae family. This epiphytic fern naturally grows on tree bark and rocks in Macaronesian islands like the Canary Islands, Azores, and Madeira. The most distinctive feature is the hairy, beige rhizomes that genuinely resemble rabbit feet.

Overview

Davallia canariensis is a tropical, epiphytic fern originating from the Western Mediterranean islands. Rather than growing in soil, this plant grows on tree bark and rocks, obtaining nutrients from debris and rainfall. This growth habit makes it perfect for hanging baskets and fern collections. The fern is semi-hardy in USDA zones 9-11.

Appearance and Fronds

The fronds of Davallia canariensis are triangular, dissected, and intricately divided. They grow in elegant, cascading forms reaching about 20-30 centimeters length. The most striking features are the hairy, beige to brown rhizomes growing above the substrate, genuinely resembling rabbit feet. These rhizomes produce aerial rootlets that help anchor the plant. Frond undersides display brown sporangia containing spores.

Ideal Location

Deer-foot fern prefers warm, humid climates with indirect light. Indoors, it flourishes on windowsills with morning or evening light. Outdoors in warm regions (USDA 10-11), grow against tree bark or rocks in partial shade. Hang in baskets or place high where rhizomes can cascade elegantly.

Soil/Substrate

Epiphytic ferns need no normal soil. Use an airy, fast-draining substrate instead: mix leaf mould, orchid bark, and perlite equally. Add sphagnum moss for moisture retention. Substrate must never compact. For wall mounting, attach to boards with moisture holders nearby.

Watering

Consistent but non-soggy moisture is essential. Mist fronds daily in warm, dry weather. Water pot substrate when the surface feels dry. Spray misting works well for hanging plants. Important: true waterlogging weakens rhizomes. Winter water less but never fully dry. Humidity of at least 60 percent is crucial.

Pruning

Minimal maintenance needed. Remove brown or diseased fronds gently. Never repot into normal potting soil; keep epiphytic. Division can be done in spring by breaking off rhizome pieces and mounting on new substrate. Young plants grow quickly.

Maintenance Calendar

Spring (March-May): Growth accelerates. Mist regularly for humidity. Summer (June-August): Peak growing season. Daily misting in heat. Autumn (September-November): Growth slows. Misting remains important. Winter (December-February): Minimal growth. Mist less frequently.

Winter Hardiness

Deer-foot fern tolerates brief freezing to about -3°C. In USDA zones 9-10, it may overwinter outside in protected spots. In colder climates (Netherlands, Belgium), grow as a greenhouse or houseplant. Many nurseries stock it as a houseplant.

Companion Plants

Davallia canariensis grows well with other tropical ferns. Combine with Platycerium, Asplenium, and ferns. On the same display structure, epiphytic orchids and bromeliads create a complete tropical ecosystem.

Closing

The Deer-foot fern is a fascinating, decorative fern that gives any home a tropical character. With proper humidity and warmth, you'll enjoy years of graceful, cascading fronds and distinctive rhizomes.