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Staghorn ferns (Platycerium)
Also known as : Antelope-ears
Staghorn ferns or elkhorn ferns are named for the interesting curved shape of their fronds that recall antlers. They grow very slowly but reach enormous sizes. As a houseplant, they can live for decades with the right care. They are mounted on wooden boards and hung on a wall, which mimics their natural growing pattern from trees.
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Airplant
Key Facts About Staghorn ferns
Feedback
Attributes of Staghorn ferns
Leaf type
Semi-evergreen
Ideal Temperature
5 - 38 ℃
Scientific Classification of Staghorn ferns
Distribution of Staghorn ferns
Feedback
Distribution Map of Staghorn ferns
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
How to Grow and Care for Staghorn ferns
Feedback
Staghorn ferns are epiphytic ferns known for their unique antler-like fronds. In terms of light, staghorn ferns thrive in bright, indirect light. They require consistent moisture, with less frequent watering in winter, and prefer high humidity. A temperate climate suits staghorn ferns best, avoiding extremes. They grow in a well-draining, bark-rich substrate. Common challenges include scale insects and root rot, often due to overwatering. Seasonally, staghorn ferns benefit from less water and fertilizer in cooler months and may need protection or relocation during temperature extremes.
How to Water Staghorn ferns?
What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Staghorn ferns?
How to Propagate Staghorn ferns?
How to Plant Staghorn ferns?
Exploring the Staghorn ferns Plants
Feedback
8 most common species：
Staghorn fern
Staghorn fern (Platycerium superbum) is an unusual-looking tropical plant with antler-like fronds. The size of the plant varies, but mature plants can grow from 91 to 122 cm wide. Upper leaves act as shields to catch fallen leaves and insects to use as nutrients. Lower leaves produce spores for propagation. Native to tropical rainforests, this plant loves high humidity environments. Prefers bright, indirect light and should be watered sparingly to prevent rotting.
Elkhorn fern
Elkhorn fern grows up to 89 cm tall by 79 cm wide. This plant absorbs water not only through its roots but also through its fronds, so consistent moisture is key for growth. The elkhorn fern is found in and near rain forests.
Indian staghorn
Indian staghorn is a species of staghorn fern featuring uniquely shaped fern fronds that form a basket shape. This fern is native to parts of India, Burma, and China.
Holttums staghorn fern
Holttums staghorn fern is a tree-growing epiphyte (living off the air and residue around the tree it is attached to) native to Southeast Asia. It is a popular ornamental plant in this region and is grown elsewhere as an attention-grabbing houseplant. It requires a sunny and humid environment to thrive. Its scientific name is derived from Dr. R. E. Holttum, a prominent naturalist from New England.
Platycerium coronarium
Platycerium coronarium is an epiphytic species of staghorn fern in the genus Platycerium. It is found in maritime Southeast Asia and Indochina. and throughout the East Indies. It produces two kinds of leaves: Foliage leaves which are broad and upright in habit, and spore bearing leaves which are narrow, pendulous, dichotomously lobed and up to fifteen feet (4.6 meters) in length.
Platycerium ridleyi
Platycerium ridleyi is a distinctive epiphytic fern displaying large, antler-like fronds. These fronds, impressively bifurcated, are adapted to the plant's tree-dwelling lifestyle, allowing for efficient spore dispersal and moisture collection from its tropical rainforest canopy home. The fern's shield fronds form a flat base that clings to tree trunks, creating a striking vertical display.
Queen staghorn fern
Queen staghorn fern is a remarkable epiphytic fern with large, green, fertile fronds that resemble stag horns, arching out dramatically from the central rosette. This species thrives in high-humidity environments, typically clinging to tree trunks where it forms a symbiotic relationship with the host, its shield-like sterile fronds acting as water and nutrient catchers.
Angola staghorn fern
Angola staghorn fern is a striking epiphytic fern with broad, antler-like fronds that cascade gracefully, resembling an elephant's ears. It thrives in humid, shaded habitats, using its distinctive nest fronds to anchor onto tree trunks. This unique adaptation collects organic debris, aiding in nutrient absorption essential for angola staghorn fern's growth and overall health.
All Species of Staghorn ferns
Staghorn fern
Staghorn fern
Staghorn fern (Platycerium superbum) is an unusual-looking tropical plant with antler-like fronds. The size of the plant varies, but mature plants can grow from 91 to 122 cm wide. Upper leaves act as shields to catch fallen leaves and insects to use as nutrients. Lower leaves produce spores for propagation. Native to tropical rainforests, this plant loves high humidity environments. Prefers bright, indirect light and should be watered sparingly to prevent rotting.
Elkhorn fern
Elkhorn fern
Elkhorn fern grows up to 89 cm tall by 79 cm wide. This plant absorbs water not only through its roots but also through its fronds, so consistent moisture is key for growth. The elkhorn fern is found in and near rain forests.
Indian staghorn
Indian staghorn
Indian staghorn is a species of staghorn fern featuring uniquely shaped fern fronds that form a basket shape. This fern is native to parts of India, Burma, and China.
Holttums staghorn fern
Holttums staghorn fern
Holttums staghorn fern is a tree-growing epiphyte (living off the air and residue around the tree it is attached to) native to Southeast Asia. It is a popular ornamental plant in this region and is grown elsewhere as an attention-grabbing houseplant. It requires a sunny and humid environment to thrive. Its scientific name is derived from Dr. R. E. Holttum, a prominent naturalist from New England.
Platycerium coronarium
Platycerium coronarium
Platycerium coronarium is an epiphytic species of staghorn fern in the genus Platycerium. It is found in maritime Southeast Asia and Indochina. and throughout the East Indies. It produces two kinds of leaves: Foliage leaves which are broad and upright in habit, and spore bearing leaves which are narrow, pendulous, dichotomously lobed and up to fifteen feet (4.6 meters) in length.
Platycerium ridleyi
Platycerium ridleyi
Platycerium ridleyi is a distinctive epiphytic fern displaying large, antler-like fronds. These fronds, impressively bifurcated, are adapted to the plant's tree-dwelling lifestyle, allowing for efficient spore dispersal and moisture collection from its tropical rainforest canopy home. The fern's shield fronds form a flat base that clings to tree trunks, creating a striking vertical display.
Queen staghorn fern
Queen staghorn fern
Queen staghorn fern is a remarkable epiphytic fern with large, green, fertile fronds that resemble stag horns, arching out dramatically from the central rosette. This species thrives in high-humidity environments, typically clinging to tree trunks where it forms a symbiotic relationship with the host, its shield-like sterile fronds acting as water and nutrient catchers.
Angola staghorn fern
Angola staghorn fern
Angola staghorn fern is a striking epiphytic fern with broad, antler-like fronds that cascade gracefully, resembling an elephant's ears. It thrives in humid, shaded habitats, using its distinctive nest fronds to anchor onto tree trunks. This unique adaptation collects organic debris, aiding in nutrient absorption essential for angola staghorn fern's growth and overall health.
Platycerium stemaria
Platycerium stemaria
Platycerium stemaria is recognized by its distinctive antler-like fertile fronds and large, sterile shields that overlap at the base. The fertile fronds radiate outward, resembling stag horns, while the shields protect the plant's roots and help collect water and fallen debris. Native to tropical African forests, platycerium stemaria's unique growth habits support its survival in the canopy's dappled light.
Silver elkhorn
Silver elkhorn
Silver elkhorn is a distinctive epiphytic fern known for its antler-like fronds, which can be green or silvery-white, creating a contrast against tree trunks where it commonly resides. These fronds elongate and curve gracefully, resembling stag horns, allowing silver elkhorn to capture falling debris for nutrients. Its shield fronds form a protective base, adhering to the host and aiding in water retention.
Platycerium alcicorne
Platycerium alcicorne
Platycerium alcicorne is distinguished by its large, antler-like fronds that arch elegantly outward. These verdant appendages create a dramatic display when mounted on a tree or hanging, simulating its natural epiphytic lifestyle in the forest. Its dual frond types, one for photosynthesis and the other for anchoring, optimize survival in dappled light environments.
More Popular Genus
Feedback
Dracaena
Dracaena are popular house plants that are easy to grow. They can tolerate low-light conditions and require little watering. Their leaves range from variegated to dark green. Their characteristic traits include woody stems that grow slowly but offer a striking appearance for small spaces such as apartments or offices.
Fig trees
Fig trees have been cultivated in many regions for their fruits, particularly the common fig, F. carica. Most of the species have edible fruits, although the common fig is the only one of commercial value. Fig trees are also important food sources for wildlife in the tropics, including monkeys, bats, and insects.
Brambles
Brambles are members of the rose family, and there are hundreds of different types to be found throughout the European countryside. They have been culturally significant for centuries; Christian folklore stories hold that when the devil was thrown from heaven, he landed on a bramble bush. Their vigorous growth habit can tangle into native plants and take over.
Maples
The popular tree family known as maples change the color of their leaves in the fall. Many cultural traditions encourage people to watch the colors change, such as momijigari in Japan. Maples popular options for bonsai art. Alternately, their sap is used to create maple syrup.
Prunus
Prunus is a genus of flowering fruit trees that includes almonds, cherries, plums, peaches, nectarines, and apricots. These are often known as "stone fruits" because their pits are large seeds or "stones." When prunus trees are damaged, they exhibit "gummosis," a condition in which the tree's gum (similar to sap) is secreted to the bark to help heal external wounds.
Nightshades
Nightshades is a large and diverse genus of plants, with more than 1500 different types worldwide. This genus incorporates both important staple food crops like tomato, potato, and eggplant, but also dangerous poisonous plants from the nightshade family. The name was coined by Pliny the Elder almost two thousand years ago.
Roses
Most species of roses are shrubs or climbing plants that have showy flowers and sharp thorns. They are commonly cultivated for cut flowers or as ornamental plants in gardens due to their attractive appearance, pleasant fragrance, and cultural significance in many countries. The rose hips (fruits) can also be used in jams and teas.
Oaks
Oaks are among the world's longest-lived trees, sometimes growing for over 1,000 years! The oldest known oak tree is in the southern United States and is over 1,500 years old. Oaks produce an exceedingly popular type of wood which is used to make different products, from furniture and flooring to wine barrels and even cosmetic creams.
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About
Key Facts
Distribution
How To Care
All Species
More Genus
Staghorn ferns
Platycerium
Also known as: Antelope-ears
Staghorn ferns or elkhorn ferns are named for the interesting curved shape of their fronds that recall antlers. They grow very slowly but reach enormous sizes. As a houseplant, they can live for decades with the right care. They are mounted on wooden boards and hung on a wall, which mimics their natural growing pattern from trees.
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Airplant
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Key Facts About Staghorn ferns
Feedback
Attributes of Staghorn ferns
Leaf type
Semi-evergreen
Ideal Temperature
5 - 38 ℃
Scientific Classification of Staghorn ferns
Distribution of Staghorn ferns
Feedback
Distribution Map of Staghorn ferns
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
How to Grow and Care for Staghorn ferns
Feedback
Staghorn ferns are epiphytic ferns known for their unique antler-like fronds. In terms of light, staghorn ferns thrive in bright, indirect light. They require consistent moisture, with less frequent watering in winter, and prefer high humidity. A temperate climate suits staghorn ferns best, avoiding extremes. They grow in a well-draining, bark-rich substrate. Common challenges include scale insects and root rot, often due to overwatering. Seasonally, staghorn ferns benefit from less water and fertilizer in cooler months and may need protection or relocation during temperature extremes.
How to Water Staghorn ferns?
What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Staghorn ferns?
How to Propagate Staghorn ferns?
How to Plant Staghorn ferns?
Exploring the Staghorn ferns Plants
Feedback
8 most common species：
Staghorn fern
Staghorn fern (Platycerium superbum) is an unusual-looking tropical plant with antler-like fronds. The size of the plant varies, but mature plants can grow from 91 to 122 cm wide. Upper leaves act as shields to catch fallen leaves and insects to use as nutrients. Lower leaves produce spores for propagation. Native to tropical rainforests, this plant loves high humidity environments. Prefers bright, indirect light and should be watered sparingly to prevent rotting.
Elkhorn fern
Elkhorn fern grows up to 89 cm tall by 79 cm wide. This plant absorbs water not only through its roots but also through its fronds, so consistent moisture is key for growth. The elkhorn fern is found in and near rain forests.
Indian staghorn
Indian staghorn is a species of staghorn fern featuring uniquely shaped fern fronds that form a basket shape. This fern is native to parts of India, Burma, and China.
Holttums staghorn fern
Holttums staghorn fern is a tree-growing epiphyte (living off the air and residue around the tree it is attached to) native to Southeast Asia. It is a popular ornamental plant in this region and is grown elsewhere as an attention-grabbing houseplant. It requires a sunny and humid environment to thrive. Its scientific name is derived from Dr. R. E. Holttum, a prominent naturalist from New England.
Show More Species
All Species of Staghorn ferns
More Popular Genus
Feedback
Dracaena
Dracaena are popular house plants that are easy to grow. They can tolerate low-light conditions and require little watering. Their leaves range from variegated to dark green. Their characteristic traits include woody stems that grow slowly but offer a striking appearance for small spaces such as apartments or offices.
Fig trees
Fig trees have been cultivated in many regions for their fruits, particularly the common fig, F. carica. Most of the species have edible fruits, although the common fig is the only one of commercial value. Fig trees are also important food sources for wildlife in the tropics, including monkeys, bats, and insects.
Brambles
Brambles are members of the rose family, and there are hundreds of different types to be found throughout the European countryside. They have been culturally significant for centuries; Christian folklore stories hold that when the devil was thrown from heaven, he landed on a bramble bush. Their vigorous growth habit can tangle into native plants and take over.
Maples
The popular tree family known as maples change the color of their leaves in the fall. Many cultural traditions encourage people to watch the colors change, such as momijigari in Japan. Maples popular options for bonsai art. Alternately, their sap is used to create maple syrup.
Prunus
Prunus is a genus of flowering fruit trees that includes almonds, cherries, plums, peaches, nectarines, and apricots. These are often known as "stone fruits" because their pits are large seeds or "stones." When prunus trees are damaged, they exhibit "gummosis," a condition in which the tree's gum (similar to sap) is secreted to the bark to help heal external wounds.
Nightshades
Nightshades is a large and diverse genus of plants, with more than 1500 different types worldwide. This genus incorporates both important staple food crops like tomato, potato, and eggplant, but also dangerous poisonous plants from the nightshade family. The name was coined by Pliny the Elder almost two thousand years ago.
Roses
Most species of roses are shrubs or climbing plants that have showy flowers and sharp thorns. They are commonly cultivated for cut flowers or as ornamental plants in gardens due to their attractive appearance, pleasant fragrance, and cultural significance in many countries. The rose hips (fruits) can also be used in jams and teas.
Oaks
Oaks are among the world's longest-lived trees, sometimes growing for over 1,000 years! The oldest known oak tree is in the southern United States and is over 1,500 years old. Oaks produce an exceedingly popular type of wood which is used to make different products, from furniture and flooring to wine barrels and even cosmetic creams.
Your Ultimate Guide to Plants
Identify grow and nurture the better way!
17,000 local species +400,000 global species studied
Nearly 5 years of research
80+ scholars in botany and gardening
Continue reading in our app - it's better
A database of 400000+ plants
unlimited guides at your fingertips...
unlimited guides at your fingertips...
