Platycerium bifurcatum

staghorn fern

Staghorn fern attaches to trees, rocks, wood; expands as side pups appear. Happy in mild areas w/evening fog. 2 frond types: staghorn, shield.

Seen in Stunning Staghorn Ferns: Living Art for Your Garden Walls →

Height	2–3ft
Width	2–3ft
Tolerates	Coast, Cool Summers, Fog, Narrow Planting, Pots, Wind
Water needs	Moderate
Hardy to	27°F
Exposure	Part Sun – Full Shade
Plant traits	Epiphyte, Foliage Feature, Sculptural, Tropical, Vertical Gardening
Indoor / outdoor	Outdoor
Drainage	In Pots: Cactus Mix, Orchid Bark, Requires Perfect Drainage
Fertilizing	All Purpose, Low Needs
Origin	SW Pacific
California native	No
Sunset zones	15–17, 21–24, H1, H2

Stories featuring this plant

Garden storyStunning Staghorn Ferns: Living Art for Your Garden WallsStaghorn ferns, also called elkhorn ferns, are aptly named for their upright forked fronds which resemble antlers. These upper fronds, named fertile fronds, are elevated to release spores for reproduction. The fertile fronds often have an attractive matte white or grey dusting to them, and many have wonderful rippled textures like mushroom gills.

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Stunning Staghorn Ferns: Living Art for Your Garden Walls

The above information reflects the observations of Grubb and Nadler and our extended plant community. We always consider input from fellow horticulturists and welcome feedback from those with additional information on the culture of this plant.

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Stories featuring this plant

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