How to Grow Davallia mariesii
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Davallia mariesii
Davallia mariesii
fernDavallia mariesii, commonly known as the Squirrel's Foot Fern or Hare's Foot Fern, is a small epiphytic fern native to East Asia. It is prized for its delicate, lacy green fronds and distinctive fuzzy rhizomes that resemble a furry animal's paw. This charming fern makes an excellent houseplant and hanging basket specimen.
When should you plant Davallia mariesii in your zone?
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Example Davallia mariesii timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Davallia mariesii
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Davallia mariesii
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Davallia mariesii dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in USDA zones 10-11; grow indoors in cooler climates
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Get my Davallia mariesii timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
2-4 weeksNew plant adjusting to indoor environment with minimal frond growth
Acclimate gradually to new light conditions; maintain consistent moisture and humidity; avoid moving the plant frequently
Vegetative Growth
3-6 monthsPlant produces new lacy fronds from fuzzy rhizomes; fronds unfurl gradually
Maintain warm temperatures (65-75°F); provide bright indirect light; mist frequently to boost humidity; use balanced liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season
Established Canopy
6-12 monthsPlant develops fuller appearance with dense, delicate green fronds cascading from mature rhizomes
Continue regular misting and humidity; reduce watering slightly in winter; fertilize every 4-6 weeks in growing season; gently remove dead or yellowing fronds
Maturity
OngoingFuzzy rhizomes become more prominent and visible; fronds display maximum delicacy and lacy appearance
Maintain consistent care routine; repot to fresh mix every 1-2 years in spring; the furry rhizomes may sprawl over pot edges
Sporangia Formation
Intermittent during growing seasonUndersides of mature fronds develop spore clusters (sporangia); reproduces via spores rather than runners
No special care needed; spores rarely viable for home propagation; continue standard maintenance
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase humidity; mist foliage regularly; isolate affected plant; spray with water to dislodge; apply neem oil or insecticidal soap if severe
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Remove visible pests with cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol; treat with insecticidal soap; improve air circulation
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Manually remove with soft brush; apply horticultural oil; isolate plant to prevent spread
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Reduce soil moisture; use yellow sticky traps; apply organic potting soil drench with beneficial nematodes
Uses
Indoor Air Purification
HouseholdFerns like Davallia mariesii help remove toxins from indoor air and increase humidity levels, creating a healthier indoor environment. Their transpiration naturally raises ambient moisture. [source]
Decorative Hanging Display
HouseholdThe cascading, lacy fronds and attractive fuzzy rhizomes make this fern ideal for hanging baskets, shelves, and decorative plant displays. The trailing habit adds movement and texture to interiors. [source]
Terrarium & Vivarium Plant
CraftDavallia mariesii thrives in closed or open terrariums and reptile/amphibian enclosures due to its need for consistent moisture and humidity. It provides naturalistic forestry aesthetics. [source]
Habitat for Small Invertebrates
WildlifeThe dense frond structure and moist microhabitat created by this fern support beneficial insects, springtails, and other small arthropods in tropical or humid indoor environments. [source]
Traditional Asian Herbal Use
MedicinalIn traditional Chinese and East Asian medicine, some Davallia species have been used to support respiratory health and address inflammation, though clinical evidence is limited. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Davallia mariesii is not harvested for food or material; however, you can propagate by removing mature rhizomes with attached fronds and potting them separately in fresh fern mix. Spores can be collected from frond undersides but are difficult to propagate at home.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The distinctive fuzzy rhizomes of Davallia mariesii are covered in protective scales and fine hairs, resembling a squirrel's or hare's foot—hence the common name. These exposed rhizomes are a key ornamental feature and should not be buried in soil.
- 🌱 Davallia mariesii is an epiphytic fern in nature, meaning it grows on tree branches and other plants in humid tropical forests rather than on the ground. This heritage explains its preference for high humidity and well-aerated, bark-based growing media.
- 🌱 Unlike many ferns that spread via runners, Davallia mariesii primarily reproduces through spores found on the undersides of its fronds. A single mature frond can produce thousands of microscopic spores.
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