Platycerium bifurcatum

Staghorn Fern

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Taxonomy

Common Names

Staghorn FernElkhorn Fern

Context

nativeRegion

Eastern Australia, New Guinea, and some Southeast Asian islands.

usdaZones

9-12 (outdoors); commonly grown indoors beyond these zones.

companionPlants

Orchids, Tillandsia, Nephrolepis (Boston fern), Epiphytic mosses

culturalUses

Popular as an ornamental houseplant and for mounting on wood plaques or trees in botanical displays.

Care

LightBright, indirect light; tolerates some morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon rays.

WateringKeep root ball and shield moist, allowing slight drying between waterings. Mist regularly.

SoilEpiphytic; prefers sphagnum moss or a loose, well-draining orchid mix if potted.

FertilizerFeed with a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.

HumidityHigh humidity preferred (50-80%); thrives with regular misting or in humid environments.

TemperatureIdeal range is 16-27°C (60-80°F). Protect from frost and temperatures below 10°C (50°F).

HabitEpiphytic fern; grows as a clump with fronds divided into fertile and sterile types.

Mature SizeUp to 90 cm (3 ft) wide and tall under ideal conditions.

Growth RateModerate growth rate; young plants may take several years to reach full size.

BloomingNon-flowering; reproduces by spores on the undersides of fertile fronds.

DormancyNo true dormancy, but growth slows in cooler or drier months.

MethodsSpores, Division of offsets/pups

DifficultyModerate; division is easier than raising from spores.

Best SeasonSpring to early summer

PruningRemove dead or damaged fronds; do not cut healthy shields.

RepottingRepot or remount every 2-3 years when plant outgrows its mount or medium.

Pests & DiseasesWatch for scale, mealybugs, and root rot if overwatered.

ToxicityNon-toxic to humans and pets.

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