staghorn fern (elkhorn fern)
Platycerium
Epiphytic fern with distinctive antler-like fronds, often mounted; native to tropical regions and prefers bright, indirect light, humidity, and periodic watering.
Pet-Friendly Plant
Toxicity: non toxic
Considered non-toxic to cats and dogs; ingestion may cause mild stomach upset but is not poisonous. Avoid feeding plant material to pets.
🌱Care Requirements
Light
Place in bright, indirect light: near an east or north window or sheltered a few feet from a west/south window with sheer curtain. Avoid hot midday sun which scorches fronds; dappled shade under a canopy is ideal.
Water
Water by thoroughly soaking the root/ball or mounted wool each time: dunk or pour until shields and root mass are wet, then drain. Allow surface to dry slightly between soaks; weekly to fortnightly depending on season and humidity.
Humidity
Requires high humidity (60–80%). Maintain with regular misting, pebble trays, grouping plants or a humidifier; mounting on wood and good air circulation help prevent rot while keeping humidity high.
Temperature
Prefers 10–32°C (50–90°F). Avoid prolonged cold below 10°C (50°F) and protect from sudden temperature drops or hot, dry drafts.
🔧Common Problems & Solutions
Brown, crispy fronds
Cause: Too much direct sun or underwatering causing desiccation.
Solution: Move to brighter, indirect light, increase humidity and soak more frequently; prune dead fronds and monitor watering schedule.
Black, mushy fronds or base rot
Cause: Prolonged wet conditions, poor drainage or poor air circulation causing fungal rot.
Solution: Reduce watering, improve airflow, unmount and inspect roots; remove rotten tissue, let dry, and remount on a drier, well-draining base.
Pale yellow shields / slow growth
Cause: Insufficient light or low nutrients when mounted long-term.
Solution: Provide brighter indirect light, apply a balanced dilute fertilizer during growth season, and refresh mounting medium occasionally.
Scale, mealybugs or spider mites
Cause: Indoor dryness and lack of airflow encourage pests.
Solution: Isolate plant, remove pests with alcohol swabs or insecticidal soap, increase humidity and airflow, repeat treatments until eradicated.
✂️How to Propagate staghorn fern (elkhorn fern)
Propagate by dividing healthy, mature plants or removing offsets. For division: gently unmount, separate the root ball and shield fronds ensuring each section has roots and basal shields, then remount on board or in coarse mix. For offsets: allow pups to reach 2–3 in (5–8 cm), then cut with sterile tool, keep moist and shaded while roots form. Spore (seed) propagation requires collecting ripe spores, sowing on sterile, moist medium and patient, humid conditions; it is slower and more technical.
🌍Origin & Background
Family: Polypodiaceae
Native to: Tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, Australia and the Americas.
Natural Habitat: Epiphytic on tree trunks and branches in humid, shaded forests. They grow in dappled light with frequent moisture cycles and good airflow, anchored to bark rather than in soil.
🗓Seasonal Care Guide
Winter
Reduce watering frequency and avoid cold drafts. Maintain higher humidity and bright, indirect light; feed very lightly or pause fertilizer during dormancy.
Spring
Increase watering and resume monthly balanced dilute fertilizer. Encourage active growth by checking mounts, refreshing medium, and ensuring bright indirect light.
Summer
Water more frequently, increase misting or use a humidifier, and protect from harsh midday sun. Monitor for pests and ensure good air circulation.
Fall
Gradually reduce watering as growth slows. Clean off dead fronds, check mounts for stability and prepare for cooler temperatures by avoiding sudden exposure to cold.
❓Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water a staghorn fern?
Typically every 7–14 days; soak thoroughly then let the root mass dry slightly between waterings. Frequency varies with humidity and temperature.
Can staghorn ferns be grown in soil pots?
They prefer mounting on wood or tree fern plaque but can be grown in a very free-draining, chunky mix; potted specimens still need excellent drainage and humidity.
How do I mount a staghorn fern?
Attach with sphagnum moss and wire to a board so basal shields rest against the wood. Keep moss moist until roots establish and hang in bright, indirect light.
Are staghorn ferns toxic to pets?
No, they are considered non-toxic to dogs and cats, though eating can cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
Why are my staghorn fronds turning brown at the tips?
Brown tips often indicate low humidity, underwatering, or sunburn. Increase humidity, check watering frequency, and move out of direct sun.
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Last updated: 11/7/2025