Ferns are a diverse group of plants that can vary drastically in appearance. The Staghorn Fern and Elkhorn Fern are part of a subgroup of ferns that are unique, stunning, and easy to grow. This fern is part of the Platycerium genus, and there are many plants and hybrids that belong to the same genus. Platycerium bifurcatum is the botanical name for the Staghorn. However, it’s common to see any plant in this genus labeled as a Staghorn. Care for Platycerium or Plenty ferns is generally similar, so you can follow the same guidelines for whatever variety you own. Learn more about Staghorn Fern care and how to distinguish different varieties.

Stag Party

Platycerium plants are epiphytic and native to Africa, Southeast Asia, South America, Australia, and New Guinea. The fern’s namesake feature is its long, broad leaves or foliar fronds, which somewhat resemble deer antlers, thus inspiring the name staghorn. Houseplants can grow 3 to 4 feet long, while plants in nature can grow much larger.

In addition to the large, eye-catching leaves, the Staghorn has smaller, flat leaves known as shield fronds or basal fronds. The shield frond protects the roots and curves outward to collect rainwater and organic matter and funnel it into the root ball. Since plants in the Platycerium genus do not grow in soil, they need to get inventive when finding ways to get the nutrition they need.

How to Tell Staghorn Fern and Elkhorn Fern Plants Apart

Many plants are in the Platycerium genus, and telling them apart can be tricky. To further complicate matters, the staghorn name is sometimes used interchangeably.

• Platycerium bifurcatum, or Staghorn Fern, are large and have narrow, deeply lobed foliage that hangs down.
• Platycerium alcicorne, or Elkhorn Fern, is smaller and has thin, lobed foliage similar to the Staghorn, but the leaves are more upright and bend at the tips. Elkhorn Ferns often have multiple eyes or rosettes that allow for easy propagation.
• Platycerium hillii has a round shield frond that does not curve out and catch water as effectively as its closely related cousin, Platycerium bifurcatum. Dark green foliar fronds are upright and have forked ends.
• Platycerium ellisii is closely related to the Elkhorn Fern. Its waxy fronds are very thin at the base and broad at the ends, and the tip features two points.
• Platycerium coronarium or Crown Staghorn Fern has long, forked, foliar fronds.
• Platycerium grande is a large plant that thrives in high humidity and is a good match for an expert plant person. Impressively large upright shield fronds are broad and have a slight ripple. Thin, lobed foliage dangles below. 
• Platycerium superbum is similar but separate from Platycerium grande, although these plants were considered the same until several decades ago. The shield frond on this plant can measure a staggering four feet wide.

Staghorn Fern Care Needs

Increased humidity is an absolute requirement for Staghorn Fern care. Some plants prefer high humidity but can handle less dampness; the Staghorn is not one of those plants. Locate the plant in an area with high humidity, like a kitchen or bathroom, and fire up a humidifier if necessary. Choose a warm spot that receives bright, indirect sunlight.

How to Water Platycerium Ferns

Water Staghorn Fern plants when the base is dry. Platycerium are thirsty plants like most ferns but prefer to dry out. Remove the mount from the wall and water the fern in a sink or tub to minimize mess and prevent water from dripping down a wall. Staghorn Ferns are good candidates for bottom watering. Let excess water drip before returning the mount to the wall.

If the fronds turn black near the base of the plant, then the fern is overwatered. The fronds wilt if the fern is underwatered. 

Why is the Shield Frond Brown?

Shield fronds or basal fronds naturally turn brown on many Platycerium cultivars. Sometimes, the shield fronds turn brown when the plant is dormant, and other times, it naturally happens due to age. Brown shield fronds are normal and natural. Never remove a shield frond. This foliage protects the roots and removing it leaves the roots exposed and vulnerable.

What is the White Dust on My Staghorn Fern?

Healthy plants have tiny hair-like structures used to soak up moisture from the air and sustain the fern. These tiny structures are white and are so small they look like dust. Do not attempt to clean them or wipe them from the fronds. They are normal and help the plant survive.

How to Mount Staghorn Ferns

Platycerium ferns naturally grow on trees, and they do best when mounted. A shop may sell a small fern in a pot with soil, but you can easily mount your new fern. Start with a board that can be hung on a wall. Use peat or sphagnum moss as a growing medium. You can leave potting mix on the roots, but gently shake most of it free. Use twine, wire, or fishing line to secure the plant to the board, ensuring the growing medium covers the roots. New foliar fronds will conceal the twine or wire as the plant grows. Upgrade to a larger mount as necessary and use fresh moss when updating the mount.

If you’re not into the mounted look, many Platycerium ferns can grow in a hanging basket. Create a custom potting mix using half cacti soil and half orchid bark.

Temperature Requirements

Staghorn Ferns prefer warm temperatures. Young ferns cannot tolerate chilly temperatures, but mature plants are surprisingly resilient. These plants can live in temperatures between 50° and 100° F, although temperatures on the upper end of this range are best.

Pro tip: Warm, humid environments are ideal for Staghorn Fern care, so an outdoor area in the summer, like a porch or patio, can help these plants thrive. However, since Staghorn Ferns are considered invasive in places like Florida and Hawaii, consider growing them exclusively indoors in those areas.

Fertilizer Tips

Apply balanced, water-soluble fertilizer monthly during the spring and summer.

Staghorn Fern Propagation

Most Platycerium ferns can be propagated through division. Remove new plants or pups to grow on their own. Some varieties do not produce pups and can only be propagated through spores. Spore propagation is challenging and time-consuming. It’s good to try new things and challenge yourself, but buying a new plant is a whole lot easier than propagating a new fern via spores.

Is Staghorn Fern Pet Safe?

Staghorn Fern or Platycerium bifurcatum is non-toxic, making it safe to have in a household with pets.