Water
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the top centimeter of soil feels dry.
Reduce watering frequency during winter months, allowing the soil to dry out slightly more between waterings to prevent root rot.
Also known as Squirrelfoot Fern
Ball fern (Davallia bullata) is an epiphytic fern from Asia known for its attractive, feathery fronds and unique, fuzzy rhizomes that resemble small balls.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch fronds.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy.
Well-draining, humus-rich potting mix
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers average room temperatures between 18-24°C. Avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations.
Low
25% intensity
Feed sparingly during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the top centimeter of soil feels dry.
Reduce watering frequency during winter months, allowing the soil to dry out slightly more between waterings to prevent root rot.
Prune to remove any dead, damaged, or discolored fronds. You can also trim back leggy growth to encourage a bushier habit.
Pruning can be done at any time of year, but is best done in spring or early summer to promote new growth.
Davallia bullata is typically propagated by division of rhizomes or by spores. Gently divide overgrown clumps, ensuring each section has healthy rhizomes and some fronds.
Spore propagation is more challenging and requires specific conditions.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a peat-based compost with added perlite. Ensure the pot has drainage holes. Repot in spring, just as new growth begins.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Ball Fern (Davallia bullata)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Davalliaceae |
| Genus | Davallia |
| Species | Davallia bullata |
Similar in genus Davallia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data