Rabbit’s foot fern

Rabbit's foot fern, Davallia canariensis
Rabbit’s foot fern, Davallia canariensis

This is the Rabbit’s Foot Fern Davallia canariensis, which likes to grow in the warmer and damper parts of the island. It particularly likes dry stone walls, barrel-tile roofs and cliffs.

As you can see, the name comes from the root, which is very pretty. I believe that the Awara used to make gofio from it, and so did more modern Palmerans when there was nothing better available, although I’m given to understand that it tastes bitter. It’s

Close up of the root of Rabbit's foot fern, Davallia canariensis
Close up of the root of Rabbit’s foot fern, Davallia canariensis

Posted by sheila

Sheila came to La Palma with a six month contract and has stayed 24 years so far. She used to work as a software engineer at the observatory, but now she's a writer and Starlight guide.

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