White Rabbit's Foot Fern (Davallia tyermanii): Silvery Rhizomes and Fine Foliage

Overview

White rabbit's foot fern (Davallia tyermanii), also called silver hare's foot fern or bear's paw fern, is a beautiful epiphytic fern native to Fiji and Vanuatu. Its creeping rhizomes are covered in dense, **silvery-white scales**—striking against dark mounts or pot rims. The fronds are finely divided, lacy, and medium green, rising 12–18 inches to form an airy, elegant mound. More silvery than its cousin D. fejeensis, it's a prized collector's plant.

Distinguishing Features

• Silver Rhizomes: Bright white scales glow against dark backgrounds.
• Delicate Fronds: Finely cut, lace-like texture.
• Compact Habit: Smaller and slower than D. fejeensis.

Growing Tips

Bright, indirect light. Well-draining epiphytic mix. Keep evenly moist; high humidity. Avoid burying rhizomes. Minimum 55°F (13°C); USDA zones 10–11 outdoors. Superb in hanging baskets, on cork bark, or in terrariums.

Taxonomic Profile

Ethereal and elegant, the white rabbit's foot fern is a silvery jewel for epiphyte lovers.