- Low stock
Staghorn Fern | Platycerium bifurcatum
Usually ready in 4 hours
Pickup available, usually ready in 4 hours
Unit E1, 26 Sir Alfred Owen Way
Joe's Plant Place
Caerphilly CF83 3HU
United Kingdom
Plant Description
Description
Platycerium bifurcatum, commonly known as the Staghorn Fern, is a distinctive tropical fern with long, branching green fronds that resemble the antlers of a stag. It produces two types of fronds: antler-shaped fertile fronds and rounded shield fronds that protect its roots. Its unusual growth habit makes it ideal for hanging baskets, mounted displays and decorative indoor spaces.
PLANT CARE
Everything you need to know to keep your plant happy and thriving.
LIGHT
Medium Light
WATER
Moderate watering. Allow the growing medium to dry slightly between waterings, but avoid prolonged periods of complete dryness. For potted plants, water thoroughly and allow excess water to drain away. For mounted plants, soak the moss-covered root ball in room-temperature water for approximately 10–20 minutes, then allow it to drain completely before rehanging. Reduce watering during winter when growth slows.
SOIL
A free-draining epiphytic mix containing orchid bark, sphagnum moss and a small amount of houseplant compost. Staghorn Ferns naturally grow attached to trees rather than rooted in ordinary garden soil.
REPOT
Repot approximately every 2–3 years, preferably during spring, or when the growing medium begins to break down. Staghorn Ferns can also be mounted onto wooden boards using sphagnum moss. Avoid disturbing the roots unnecessarily
HUMIDITY
Medium
DIFFICULTY
Medium
PET FRIENDLY
Yes
JOE'S TOP TIP
Position your Staghorn Fern somewhere with bright, indirect light and good airflow. Avoid wiping the green fronds, as their fine protective coating helps reduce moisture loss. The rounded shield fronds at the base naturally turn brown as they mature. Do not remove these, as they protect the roots and help collect moisture and organic material.
COMMON MISTAKE
Removing the brown shield fronds because they appear dead. These fronds are an important part of the plant's natural growth and should remain attached. Avoid using heavy, moisture-retentive compost, as poor drainage can cause root rot.
WHEN TO COME BACK TO US
Bring it back (or a photo) in 6–8 weeks if you want: • Advice on mounting your Staghorn Fern • Repotting guidance • Help identifying healthy shield fronds • Watering and humidity advice • A general plant health check
PLANT FACT
Staghorn Ferns are epiphytes, meaning they naturally grow attached to trees without taking nutrients directly from the tree itself. They absorb moisture and nutrients from rainwater and organic material collected around their shield fronds. Mature plants produce spores on the undersides of their fertile fronds, allowing them to reproduce without flowers or seeds.
COUNTRY OF ORIGIN
Native to Australia, New Guinea and parts of Southeast Asia