platycerium bifurcatum – staghorn fern

the genus platycerium contains approx. 18 members but only a few of them are used as indoor plants. they are native to the tropical regions of south amerika, africa, south east asia, australia and new guinea. some of them grow epiphytic (sitting on trees) or lithophytic (on rocks). platycerium bifurcatum is commonly known as staghorn fern or elk horn fern.

care

the staghorn fern grows best if located bright but protected from afternoon sun. some morning or evening sun such as a light shaded place will be tolerated.

the soil should be well drained. i’m using a mix of orchid bark and potting soil (1:1). but it can also be cultivated in pure orchid bark.

from fall to spring platycerium bifurcatum can be deep watered. what’s running out of the pot must be removed after a few minutes because wet legs will cause rotten roots. before adding water next let the soil become moderately dry.

a half diluted water soluble fertilizer can be given monthly from spring to fall.

during winter the staghorn fern likes to be placed at approx. +/- 15 °c/59 °f. it now has to be kept nearly dry and must not be feeded.

the staghorn fern has two types of fronds: the upright, forked and green are fertile. the sterile ones are used for storage and shouldn’t be removed. as the fern ages they turn brown.