Humata tyermanii - White Rabbit's Foot Fern

Humata tyermanii, commonly known as the White Rabbit's Foot Fern, is a species native to the Philippines and surrounding regions. It grows in shaded, humid forests where its creeping rhizomes spread across mossy tree trunks and rocks, anchoring the plant securely in leaf litter and organic debris.

The rhizomes are covered in pale, silvery-white hairs, which resemble the soft paws of a rabbit and distinguish it from the more widely grown Davallia fejeensis, whose rhizomes are brownish. From these rhizomes rise finely divided, triangular fronds of a deep green colour, creating a sharp contrast with the pale rhizome surface.

The plant grows compactly and is particularly suited to hanging baskets, shallow containers, or mounted culture that allows the creeping rhizomes to be displayed. When given steady moisture, high humidity, and filtered light, it will steadily expand its rhizome mat and produce fresh fronds throughout the year.

Care Tips:

• Light: Enjoys bright, indirect light or dappled shade; avoid direct sun which scorches the fronds.
• Water: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, reducing slightly in cooler months.
• Humidity: Benefits from moderate to high humidity; misting or using a humidity tray helps in drier conditions.
• Media: Use a loose, organic-rich mix with fine bark, peat, and perlite for both aeration and moisture retention.
• Fertiliser: Apply a diluted balanced fertiliser every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
• Temperature: Prefers 16-26 °C. Protect from frost and cold drafts.
• Repotting: Repot every 2-3 years, allowing rhizomes to naturally spread across the container surface.