Staghorn Fern

Platycerium bifurcatumAlso known as: Elkhorn Fern, Antelope Ears

The Staghorn Fern is a stunning epiphytic fern with dramatic fronds resembling deer antlers. Native to Australia, it grows naturally on trees and is often mounted on boards or grown in hanging baskets. It produces two types of fronds: flat, shield fronds at the base and forked, antler fronds that can reach 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 m).

Moderate Care

Medium Light

Perennial

Quick Care Summary

Light
Medium Light

Temperature Range
55-80°F (13-27°C)

Ideal Temp
70°F (21°C)

Pet Safe

This plant is non-toxic to cats and dogs. While it's safe to have around pets, ingestion of any plant material may still cause mild stomach upset.

Seasonal Care Schedule

Adjust your care routine based on the season for optimal plant health.

Watering Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Weekly soaking or heavy misting
Summer	Every 5-7 days, soak thoroughly
Fall	Weekly
Winter	Every 10-14 days, reduce watering

If mounted, soak in water for 10-15 minutes. Water should drain completely.

Misting Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Between waterings to maintain humidity
Summer	Frequently in dry conditions
Fall	As needed
Winter	Regularly with indoor heating

Mist both frond types. Loves high humidity.

Fertilizing Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Monthly with diluted balanced fertilizer
Summer	Monthly
Fall	Every 6-8 weeks
Winter	No fertilizing

Apply to shield fronds during watering. Light feeder.

Pruning

Frequency: Only remove dead antler fronds

Best Season: Any time

Never remove brown shield fronds - they are natural. Only cut dead, hanging antler fronds.

Repotting

Frequency: Remount every few years when outgrowing mount

Best Season: Spring

Mount on wood or in wire basket with sphagnum moss.

Propagation Methods

Division of pups (offsets)
Spore propagation (advanced)

Common Problems

Brown frond tips: Low humidity or underwatering
Black spots on fronds: Fungal disease from overwatering
Pale, washed out fronds: Too much direct light
No pups developing: Insufficient light or nutrients

Pro Tips

Brown shield fronds are normal - never remove them
Can be mounted on boards for dramatic wall display
Loves bathroom humidity
Pups can be divided and shared

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