Staghorn Fern (6")

Staghorn Fern

Platycerium bifurcatum

Care Difficulty
Moderate. An eye-catching epiphytic fern that thrives with bright light, warmth, and humidity.

Light Requirements
Bright, indirect light. A few hours of gentle morning sun is beneficial, but avoid harsh afternoon sunlight, which can burn the fronds.

Water Requirements
Water when the growing medium is almost dry. If mounted on wood, soak the entire mount in water for 10 to 20 minutes, then allow it to drain completely. Potted plants should be watered thoroughly and allowed to partially dry between waterings. Reduce watering during winter.

Humidity
Prefers high humidity (50 to 80%). Higher humidity encourages lush, healthy fronds.

Pet Safety
Pet safe. Non-toxic to cats and dogs.

Growth Speed
Moderate. Produces new fertile and shield fronds throughout the growing season.

Expected Mature Size

• Height: 2 to 3 feet
• Width: 2 to 4 feet
• Mature mounted specimens can become even larger over time.

Pot Size
If potted, use a chunky, fast-draining orchid or epiphytic mix. Mature plants are often displayed mounted rather than in containers.

Where it Grows Best
Indoors in temperatures between 65 and 80°F (18 to 27°C). It thrives in bright bathrooms, kitchens, sunrooms, or other humid spaces. It can also be displayed outdoors in a shaded location during the summer. In Zone 3, bring it indoors before nighttime temperatures fall below 55°F (13°C).

Perfect for…

• Pet-friendly homes
• Mounted plant displays
• Tropical plant collections
• Bathrooms
• Modern home décor
• Anyone looking for a unique conversation plant

Common Mistakes

• Overwatering and keeping the roots constantly wet.
• Growing in direct afternoon sun.
• Removing the brown shield fronds at the base of the plant.
• Growing in very dry air.
• Using dense potting soil instead of a well-draining mix.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it called a Staghorn Fern?
Its long, branching fronds resemble the antlers of a stag or deer, giving the plant its distinctive common name.

What are the brown leaves at the base of the plant?
These are shield fronds, and they are completely normal. They protect the roots, collect nutrients, and should never be removed, even after they turn brown.

Can I grow it mounted on wood?
Yes. Staghorn Ferns are epiphytes, meaning they naturally grow attached to trees rather than in soil. Mounted displays closely mimic their natural habitat and make stunning wall art.

How often should I fertilize it?
Feed once a month during spring and summer with a balanced water-soluble fertilizer at half strength. Mounted plants can be soaked in diluted fertilizer. Reduce or stop fertilizing during winter.

How do I water a mounted Staghorn Fern?
Remove the mount and soak it in room-temperature water for 10 to 20 minutes. Allow it to drain completely before hanging it back up.

Can I divide my Staghorn Fern?
Yes. Mature plants often produce pups (offsets) that can be carefully separated and mounted or potted to grow into new plants.

Shipping Guarantee

Every Staghorn Fern is carefully inspected, watered, and securely packaged before shipping. Extra care is taken to protect the delicate fronds and growing crown so your plant arrives healthy and ready to grow.

Healthy Arrival Guarantee

We stand behind the quality of our plants. If your Staghorn Fern arrives with significant shipping damage or in poor condition, contact us within 24 hours of delivery with clear photos of the plant and its packaging. We will gladly work with you to provide an appropriate replacement or store credit in accordance with our Healthy Arrival Guarantee policy.