Staghorn Fern
Platycerium spp.
Also known as
Elkhorn Fern, Antelope ears
Platycerium ridleyi by Dmitriy Konstantinov (CC BY 3.0)
Partial Shade
Moderate care
Moderate watering
Tender
H1a
RHS hardiness
15°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
|---|---|---|
1.8m | Max | 1.2m |
50cm | Min | 80cm |
More images of Staghorn Fern
Staghorn Fern Overview
Platycerium is a genus of about 18 epiphytic fern species from the family. Commonly known by the names Staghorn Fern or Elkhorn Fern, this references the evergreen fronds that resemble a stag's horns. They are native to tropical and temperate areas, producing two types of foliage. They are either heart-shaped (if sterile) or branched (if fertile). Oddly shaped, these ferns grow on trees and rocks and are commonly cultivated in tropical gardens, where they are grown for their elegant foliage. They do not produce flowers, but reproduce via spores that are formed on the underside of the antler-like leaves.
Common problems with Staghorn Fern
The plant is prone to the fungal disease black spot, do not water over the foliage and minimize humidity indoors to prevent the disfiguring spores. Scale insects can also be a problem.
Staghorn Fern Companion Plants
Can be mounted into various trees.
How to propagate Staghorn Fern
Division
Detach plantlets produced from root tips or runners as soon as nests have formed.
Spores
Sow spores when ripe (brown) on well draining medium.
Budding
You can propagate by detaching buds in the spring or summer and planting in compost.
Special features of Staghorn Fern
Indoor plant
Plants need bright indirect light and moisture to thrive.
Pot plant
Mount on a piece of wood or in a basket, add a little mound of peat, compost or other organic matter piled up under the plant, tie the plant onto the growing medium with panty hose or plant strips.
Attractive leaves
Other uses of Staghorn Fern
Ornamental
Grown for their unusual fronds in trees or mounted on plaques and hung indoors.
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