The fern is the number one accent plant
Accent plants can be almost any plant, but originally mountain grasses, or ferns, were placed in display for bonsai. It is important for a display that the accent plant fits the bonsai and connects to the season. Accent plants should display a certain maturity, a freshly-planted fern does not compliment the aged look of your bonsai. We focus here on the rabbit’s foot fern, but other ferns are also acceptable.
With a deep green colour and thick distinctive foliage, the rabbit’s foot fern gives year round enjoyment, making it one of the best ferns available for bonsai use. The cool feeling given by the leaves makes it suitable for pot, rock or moss ball planting. After many years of growth, they will start to develop a large clump and can be enjoyed as an exposed root style.
They are fundamentally quite strong and if they are kept from drying out, away from intense sunlight and the drying winter winds, they are easy to keep. If they dry out then the leaves will become burnt, so ensure they do not do so. Ideally, they are kept in mid-air in a very humid environment.
The rabbit’s foot fern is a deciduous plant meaning it will drop its leaves during the winter. Place in a shaded spot away from the wind and frost. Ideally under the eaves of a house or in an unheated greenhouse. Water occasionally over the winter.
It is possible to transplant at any time, but the best time is in early summer. They will grow in most soils, so use whatever you normally use for accent plants. Remove any dead leaves and extending pieces as and when you see them. They do not need a lot of fertiliser.
Transplanting method
