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Staghorn Fern

STAGHORN FERN: All You Need To Know About Growing, Care, Propagation and Hanging Them.

Introduction:

Did you know that staghorn ferns can thrive for decades with the right care, transforming your space into a lush oasis? There are also 18 different varieties of Platycerium, or staghorn fern.

Staghorn fern plants, with their unique and captivating appearance, have become increasingly popular among plant enthusiasts. Known for their antler-like fronds and ability to grow both indoors and outdoors, these plants bring a touch of natural elegance to any space. In this blog post, we will delve into the fascinating world of staghorn plants and explore how to properly care for them to ensure their health and vitality.

Staghorn Fern Video Instructions:

In this video, you’ll learn how to care for staghorn ferns, unique plants that not only beautify your environment but are also surprisingly easy to maintain.

Staghorn Fern Care

Understanding Staghorn Plants

Staghorn plants, scientifically known as Platycerium, belong to the fern family. They are epiphytic plants, meaning they naturally grow on other plants or trees without causing any harm. Their distinctive fronds resemble the antlers of a majestic stag, hence their name. With their large shield-shaped fronds, known as basal fronds, and fertile fronds that produce spores for reproduction, staghorn plants have a truly unique and eye-catching appearance.

Selecting the Right Growing Environment

To thrive, staghorn plants require a suitable growing environment that mimics their natural habitat. Ideally, they prefer bright, indirect light, making them ideal for spaces with filtered sunlight or partial shade. When selecting a location, consider their size and growth habit, as some varieties can grow quite large. Additionally, ensure proper air circulation to prevent excessive moisture accumulation, which can lead to fungal diseases.

Watering and Humidity Requirements

Proper watering is crucial for the health of staghorn plants. They prefer consistent moisture, but not waterlogged conditions. When watering, soak the plant thoroughly and allow excess water to drain away. It is important to note that staghorn plants are not drought-tolerant and may wilt if not watered adequately. In addition to watering, maintaining a humid environment is essential. Mist the fronds regularly or use a humidifier to prevent them from drying out.

Feeding and Fertilization

To support optimal growth, staghorn plants benefit from regular feeding. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength, and apply it every two to four weeks during the growing season. Be sure to avoid direct contact with the fronds when fertilizing, as it can cause damage. Additionally, consider using organic fertilizers or natural alternatives to minimize the risk of chemical burn.

Staghorn Fern Mounting

Potting and Mounting Options

Staghorn plants can be grown in pots or mounted on various surfaces, such as wooden boards, cork, or tree branches. When potting, choose a well-draining medium, such as a mixture of orchid bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite. Mounting staghorn plants on a substrate allows them to grow more naturally, resembling their epiphytic habitat. Secure the plant firmly using natural twine or wire, ensuring it has enough stability to grow and thrive.

Staghorn Fern Varieties

18 Species of Platycerium

Staghorn ferns (genus Platycerium) are a unique group of epiphytic ferns native to tropical and subtropical regions. They are named for their fronds that resemble the antlers of a stag. There are 18 species in the genus, along with several hybrids and cultivars. Let’s take a look at identifying them. Here are the main varieties:

1. Platycerium bifurcatum

Description: One of the most common species grown as a houseplant. It is known for its large, bifurcated fronds that look like deer antlers. It is hardy and relatively easy to care for, tolerating a wide range of humidity levels.

2. Platycerium superbum

Description: This Australian species has large giant, shield-like basal fronds and bifurcated fertile fronds. It tends to grow as a single rosette and is quite impressive in size, often growing to several feet wide.

3. Platycerium grande

Description: Similar to P. superbum, this species from the Philippines has large, giant, upright sterile fronds and long, arching fertile fronds. It’s notable for its large size, making it a popular species for display. Giant staghorn fern.

4. Platycerium veitchii

Description: Native to Australia, this fern is drought-tolerant and has a silvery coating on its fronds, giving it a distinctive appearance. It is more compact than some of the larger species, making it suitable for smaller spaces.

5. Platycerium hillii

Description: A smaller species from Australia, P. hillii has rounded, shield-like basal fronds and bifurcated fertile fronds. It’s a popular choice for indoor cultivation due to its manageable size.

6. Platycerium elephantotis

Description: Named for its large, elephant-ear-like basal fronds, this species is native to Africa. Its fertile fronds are smaller and less dramatically bifurcated compared to other species. Elephant staghorn fern.

7. Platycerium ridleyi

Description: Native to Malaysia, this species is quite rare and unique. It has deeply lobed, circular basal fronds and relatively short fertile fronds. It’s one of the more difficult species to cultivate in home environments.

8. Platycerium andinum

Description: The only species native to South America (Peru and Bolivia), it is smaller than many other species and has a somewhat unusual appearance with its narrow, elongated fertile fronds.

9. Platycerium stemaria

Description: Found in Madagascar and parts of Africa, this species has very distinct, narrow fronds that are deeply bifurcated, giving them a striking, spidery appearance.

10. Platycerium coronarium

Description: Native to Southeast Asia, this species has large, pendulous fertile fronds that can grow very long. It is known for its dramatic appearance and is often cultivated in tropical gardens or greenhouses.

11. Platycerium quadridichotomum

Description: Native to the Solomon Islands, this rare species has fertile fronds that bifurcate multiple times, giving them a dense, branching appearance.

12. Platycerium wandae

Description: One of the largest species, P. wandae can grow to enormous sizes with large, wide basal fronds and long, draping fertile fronds. It is native to New Guinea and is often grown in large spaces due to its size.

13. Platycerium alcicorne

Description: Often confused with P. bifurcatum, this African species has similarly bifurcated fronds, but its overall form is more compact, and its fronds are often more deeply cut.

14. Platycerium wallichii

Description: Native to Southeast Asia, this species has wide, flattened basal fronds and long, trailing fertile fronds. It’s less common in cultivation and can be more difficult to grow.

15. Platycerium madagascariense

Description: Found in Madagascar, this species is unique due to its thick, leathery fronds and its smaller size compared to other species. It is well-suited to high-humidity environments.

16. Platycerium ellisii

Description: Another species from Madagascar, P. ellisii has thin, upright sterile fronds and deeply bifurcated fertile fronds. It is less common in cultivation and requires specific growing conditions.

17. Platycerium holttumii

Description: This Southeast Asian species has relatively short and wide fertile fronds, and its shield fronds are more upright. It is rare and not commonly found in cultivation.

18. Platycerium willinckii

Description: A small species native to Australia, this fern has narrow, finely divided fronds and is more delicate in appearance. It is less commonly grown but suitable for indoor cultivation in small spaces.

Each species of staghorn fern has its own unique aesthetic and care requirements, but all share the characteristic antler-shaped fronds and epiphytic growing habit.

You can purchase this plant at our Esty shop. Happy Growing!