Staghorn fern (Platycerium bifurcatum) – All You Need To Know
About Staghorn fern (Platycerium bifurcatum)
Platycerium bifurcatum, also known as the “Staghorn Fern,” is a fern native to Australia and New Guinea that is known for its unique, antler-like fronds. It is often grown as an ornamental plant in outdoor gardens or as a houseplant, and it requires bright indirect light and regular watering to thrive.
General Information
Family: Polypodiaceae
Category: Fern
Origin: Australia
Native Climate: Tropical
Hardiness Zone: 11-9
Best as: Potted plant & Tertiary plant.
Where to grow Staghorn fern?
Staghorn fern is a common household plant that can be grown in various environments. They are Tropical plants that thrive in the hardiness zone of 11-9 with a minimum temperature of 5 and maximum temperature of 30.
Below is a typical map of the US hardiness zone where you can check your location and see if Staghorn fern can survive in your locale.
Staghorn fern is native to the Tropical climate of Australia so it will survive best in a similar climate. However, being from a resilient Polypodiaceae family, it can also be found in most unusual places.
Sunlight Requirements of Staghorn fern
The idea lighting conditions for Staghorn fern is Strong light between 21,500 to 3,200 lux or 2000 to 300 foot-candle. However, it can also survive and grow in diffused light less than 5,300 lux or 500 foot-candle.
Watering Requirements for Staghorn fern
For these plants, the best practice is to keep the soil moist between watering and water when i is half dry. “Keep moist between watering” means that the soil in which the plant is growing should not be allowed to dry out completely between watering. It is important to maintain a certain level of moisture in the soil for the plant to thrive.
“Water when soil is half dry” means that the soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between watering, but not to the point where it becomes completely dry. The best way to determine when to water a plant with this watering requirement is to wait until the soil feels dry to the touch about halfway down into the pot. At this point, it is time to water the plant.
In general, it is better to underwater a plant than to overwater it, as overwatering can lead to root rot and other problems. It is also important to pay attention to the plant’s overall health and appearance, as these can give clues as to whether the plant is receiving the right amount of water.
Is Staghorn fern prone to insects?
Staghorn fern is not prone to insects
Common diseases: N/A
Common posture & style
Staghorn fern has a Clump posture and grow in a compact, rounded shape, with multiple stems emerging from a single point.
It has beautiful Light green & Silver leaves. Its main appeal is its Foliage. It can grow up to the height of 0.61 meters with a truck width of 0.91 meters. It has a Slow growth speed under good conditions, watering, and sunlight.
Blooming Season: non flowering
Bloom Color: non flowering
Pruning: Never
Why should you keep Staghorn fern in your home?
Keeping a Staghorn fern plant in your home can bring many benefits. For one, plants can improve the air quality in your home by removing toxins and releasing oxygen.
In addition, having plants in your home can help increase humidity, which can be particularly beneficial during dry winters.
Additionally, caring for your Staghorn fern plant can be a relaxing and therapeutic activity, and Staghorn fern in your home can add a touch of nature and beauty to your living space.
Overall, there are many reasons why everyone should consider keeping a Staghorn fern plant in their home if the climate is enabling for its growth.
