Davallia bullata, the squirrel's-foot fern, is a fern in the family Davalliaceae found mainly in Japan and China. It grows well in shady places. It grows from 20 to 35 cm. It has deciduous bullata and its leaflets are linear.
Squirrel's-Foot Fern typically shows strong resistance to disease and is affected by relatively few insect pests. Its care is regarded as difficult because it needs consistently moist conditions and regular watering. At the same time, its roots can rot if it is watered too much or if the surrounding air is poorly ventilated. This fern is best for people who have some experience growing plants, since most caretakers can keep it alive for a while. Even so, Squirrel's-Foot Fern can struggle to thrive, and over time its fronds may dry out and lose vigor.
How to keep Davallia Bullata.
Light
Squirrel's-Foot Fern performs best with moderate sunlight and can tolerate both abundant and scarce light conditions. It was originally found in habitats characterized by varying light intensity and adapts well to different light environments. Excessive or insufficient light exposure can affect its growth, though the impact is not severe.
Water
The Squirrel's-Foot Fern thrives in moist, shaded areas and prefers higher humidity. While it is moderately drought-tolerant, it flourishes best in slightly damp soil and requires watering twice a week. Being an epiphytic plant, it also benefits from misting when indoors during dry conditions.
Temperature
The Squirrel's-Foot Fern needs warm conditions to thrive; its native growing environment ranges from 68 to 86℉ (20 to 30℃). Generally, it prefers temperatures between 68 and 100℉ (20 to 38℃). In colder months, it is recommended to move the plant to a warmer location or use a heating pad to keep it within its preferred temperature range.
Pruning
The Squirrel's-Foot Fern is known for its furry rhizomes and benefits from pruning in early spring. To promote better air circulation and light penetration, remove dead fronds and manage any overgrowth. Be sure to use sharp, sterilized tools to prevent infections and to encourage faster healing. This will enhance the plant's overall vitality.
Pot & Repot
When repotting a Squirrel's-Foot Fern, select a pot 1–2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) larger with good drainage. Use a well-draining potting mix. Repot in spring or fall, making sure the root ball sits just below the rim of the pot. Water thoroughly after repotting and place the fern in a warm spot with indirect sunlight.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Fern
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Davallia
- Family
- Polypodiaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 10-11
- Mature Height
- 25 cm
- Mature Spread
- 1.52 m
- Leaf Color
- Green, Blue
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Planting Time
- Spring
- Native Area
- Nepal, India, Myanmar, Bhutan, China
Other names.
