Family: Polypodiaceae
Author: (L.) Sm.
Bibliography: Mém. Acad. Roy. Sci. (Turin) 5. 414 t. 9 f. 6 HB. 97 (1793)
Year: 1793
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Davallia
Vegetable: False
Observations: Macaronesia, W. Medit.
Description
The Deer-foot fern, scientifically known as Davallia canariensis, is a captivating fern species native to the lush regions of Macaronesia and the western Mediterranean. This intriguing plant derives its common name from its distinctive rhizomes, which bear a striking resemblance to the slender legs of a deer, covered in soft, silvery scales.
First described in the late 18th century by Linnaeus and formally classified by Smith in 1793, Davallia canariensis has garnered the attention of both botanists and plant enthusiasts alike. This fern belongs to the Polypodiaceae family, a diverse group known for their uniquely shaped fronds and robust adaptability in various habitats.
The Deer-foot fern thrives in humid, shaded environments, favoring well-drained, organic-rich soil. It is often found clinging to rocks and trees, showcasing its epiphytic nature. The plant’s fronds are intricately divided and can provide a lush, verdant aesthetic to any garden or indoor space.
Careful cultivation and attention to its natural habitat requirements can ensure the flourishing of Davallia canariensis in both natural landscapes and home gardens. With its unique appearance and historic botanical significance, the Deer-foot fern continues to charm those who encounter it.
Common Names
Eng: canary fern, deer-foot fern, hare-foot fern, hare’s-foot fern
Spa: helecho batatilla
Deu: kanarenfarn
Swe: krypbräken
En: Deer-foot fern, Hare-foot fern, Canary Fern, Hare’s-foot Fern
Fi: Kanariankäpäläsaniainen
Gl: Cabriña
De: Kanarenfarn
Fa: سرخس پای خرگوش
Es: Helecho batatilla
Sv: Krypbräken
Synonyms
- Caenopteris canariensis ((L.) Willd.)
- Polypodium lusitanicum (L.)
- Davallia bornmulleri (Gand.)
- Trichomanes canariense (L.)
Distribution
- Azores (native)
- Canary Is. (native)
- Cape Verde (native)
- Madeira (native)
- Morocco (native)
- Portugal (native)
- Spain (native)
Additional Images
Leaf
Taken Mar 11, 2021 by Phaedra Hansen (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 16, 2021 by onsalo (cc-by-sa)
Taken Feb 24, 2022 by JP Roos (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 18, 2019 by Diego Alex (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 8, 2020 by Diego Alex (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Oct 24, 2021 by Fabiana Andrade (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 6, 2012 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 22, 2022 by belinha alves (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 28, 2020 by Bertulucci Cris (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 8, 2020 by Diego Alex (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Feb 20, 2013 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Taken Dec 22, 2011 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 6, 2012 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 4, 2022 by Maarten Vanhove (cc-by-sa)
Taken Dec 22, 2011 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Feb 15, 2006 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)
Taken Feb 15, 2006 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)
Taken Mar 17, 2022 by Maximilian Palm (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 4, 2022 by William Coville (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 20, 2022 by mario langevin (cc-by-sa)
Flower
Taken Oct 25, 2021 by jcasado94 (cc-by-sa)
Taken Feb 20, 2013 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Taken Feb 20, 2013 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Taken Feb 25, 2011 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Taken Dec 22, 2011 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken May 2, 2016 by Sylvain Piry (cc-by-sa)
Taken Feb 15, 2008 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)
Taken Apr 15, 2009 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)
Taken Apr 15, 2009 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)
Taken Aug 15, 2018 by Tela Botanica − Sylvain Piry (cc-by-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/4204692)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:17078300-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Davallia canariensis (L.) Sm.)