Platycerium bifurcatum aka Elkhorn Fern

Taxonomy

Genus Platycerium Family Polypodiaceae Order Polypodiales Class Polypodiopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Platycerium bifurcatum, also known as the elkhorn fern or common staghorn fern, is an evergreen, epiphytic fern with a unique and eccentric appearance. It is native to Java, New Guinea, and eastern Australia, including New South Wales, Queensland, and Lord Howe Island. This fern thrives in and near rainforests, often growing as a bracket epiphyte. It can reach a height of 90 cm (35 in) and a width of 80 cm (31 in). The plant has heart-shaped sterile fronds that are 12-45 cm (5-18 in) long, as well as arching grey-green fertile fronds that are forked and strap-shaped, growing up to 90 cm (35 in) long. The name Platycerium originates from the Greek words platys, meaning flat, and ceras, meaning horn, which refers to the fertile fronds. The specific epithet bifurcatum indicates that these fronds are bifurcated or forked. Platycerium bifurcatum is cultivated as an ornamental plant for gardens and has been awarded the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. It can be grown outdoors in temperate regions, as long as it is in a sheltered location and the minimum temperature requirement of 5 °C (41 °F) is met. Otherwise, it can be grown as a houseplant. Despite not flowering, this fern stands out with its lush foliage and distinctive branched leaf shape. It is an excellent choice for both novice and experienced plant enthusiasts, adding originality and beauty to any home.

Common names

Elkhorn Fern, Common Staghorn Fern, Staghorn Fern

How to care for Elkhorn Fern

Difficulty

Are you up for a challenge? Elkhorn Fern will test your gardening skills and require extra care and attention to thrive.

Water

Elkhorn Fern should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

When growing Elkhorn Fern, it is important to pay attention to the soil type you are using. This plant is very sensitive to dry soil and needs a potting soil that retains moisture. A good soil should still be well-draining and contain lots of organic matter. Coco coir or sphagnum moss are great options to provide the Elkhorn Fern with the nutrients and moisture it needs. The added organic matter will also help the soil retain water and prevent the Elkhorn Fern from drying out too quickly. Before planting, make sure to mix compost or manure into the soil for extra nutrients. Also, make sure to water the Elkhorn Fern regularly, making sure to keep the soil evenly moist but never soggy. With the correct soil and watering regimen, the Elkhorn Fern will thrive and bring lots of beauty to your home.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Elkhorn Fern prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Dormancy

During the cold period, it is common for Elkhorn Fern to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.

Cat approves this plant

Toxicity

Elkhorn Fern is not known to cause harm to humans or pets.

Fertilizer

The growth of Elkhorn Fern is not rapid and it doesn't necessitate any extra fertilization. By replacing its potting soil once a year, it should receive ample nutrition. It is important to note that plants obtain their energy from the sun's rays, not from fertilizers.

Growth-pattern

The Elkhorn Fern is clumping in nature, with new growth originating from the soil in close proximity to the original plant.

Region of origin

Elkhorn Fern’s native range is Temperate and Tropical Southern Hemisphere.

More info:
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More Species in Platycerium Genus

Platycerium wallichii

Platycerium ridleyi Ridley's Staghorn Fern

Platycerium Platycerium Netherlands

Platycerium superbum Staghorn Fern

Platycerium bifurcatum Elkhorn Fern

Platycerium grande Giant Staghorn Fern