Staghorn Fern: Platycerium bifurcatum Care
Houseplants

Staghorn Fern: Platycerium bifurcatum Care

Platycerium bifurcatum

Staghorn fern care (Platycerium bifurcatum): epiphytic fern with antler fronds. Medium indirect light, high humidity, grown mounted.

Characteristics

Scientific namePlatycerium bifurcatum
Height40-90 cm
Sunlightluce media indiretta
Watermedia
Soilepifita drenante
Toxicitynon tossica
Growthlenta
Temperature13 a 27 °C
Floweringassente
IrrigationSoak when the medium is nearly dry and mist to keep humidity high; avoid water sitting at the base.

The staghorn fern (Platycerium bifurcatum) is an epiphytic fern with forked, antler-like fertile fronds and rounded shield fronds that clasp the mount. Grow it on a board or in a basket, with medium indirect light, an epiphytic free-draining medium and plenty of humidity. Water by soaking. It is pet-safe. It spreads 40-90 cm.

Flowering season

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

Practical tips

Watering

Water needs: media — always check soil moisture before watering.

Position

Prefers luce media indiretta: provide the right light and rotate the plant for even growth.

Substrate

Recommended soil: epifita drenante. Refresh the substrate every 1-2 years.

Leaves

Dust the leaves with a damp cloth to support photosynthesis.

Feeding

Feed during the growing season (spring-summer) and stop in winter.

FAQ

How do you water a staghorn fern?
By soaking: every 1-2 weeks dip the base (or the mounted sphagnum) in water for 10-20 minutes, then let it drain; mist the fronds often.
Should you cut the round shield fronds?
No: the rounded shield fronds, even when they turn brown, protect the roots and should not be removed; leave them in place.

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