Staghorn Fern (Platycerium bifurcatum): Epiphytic Antler Fronds for Mounting

Botanical Name: Platycerium bifurcatum

Antler-like fronds give staghorn fern its name (also elkhorn fern). It has two frond types:

• Basal: flat, round, light green → brown with age. In nature, these cling to tree trunks, trapping fallen leaves/debris for nutrients.
• Foliar: grow from basal fronds, deeply lobed, to 3 ft (90 cm), resembling staghorn deer antlers.

Young plants can stay potted, but basal fronds eventually cover soil, making top-watering difficult. Don't saturate basal fronds—they rot easily. Water potted plants from below: set pot in water tray 15 min.

Mounting (Closer to Nature)

When larger, hang in sphagnum-lined wire basket or mount on bark/wood slab.

Mounting method: Damp sphagnum moss or orchid mix on bark/untreated board. Place fern so basal fronds touch board. Secure firmly with twine, wire, or fishing line.

Staghorn Fern Care Quick Reference

• Origin: Australia
• Height: Trails to 3 ft (90 cm)
• Light: Bright indirect. Strong summer sun damages fronds.
• Water: Thoroughly, allow medium to dry between. Potted: water from below 15 min. Mounted: plunge root portion 15 min, drip-dry. Err on dry side—mature plants tolerate drought better than soggy medium (root rot).
• Humidity: Prefers moist air. Mist often with room-temp water.
• Temperature: 60–75°F (16–24°C)
• Soil: Sphagnum moss or epiphyte mix (bromeliad/orchid mix)
• Fertilizer: Monthly summer with balanced foliar fertilizer, or add fertilizer to water and plunge rootball for several minutes.
• Propagation: Offsets ("pups") removed and mounted separately. Spores on lobed frond tips—slow/difficult, not practical.