The moosehorn fern, Platycerium bifurcatum, presents a striking appearance, often likened to moose or deer antlers. This epiphytic fern naturally grows on other plants or structures, like tree trunks and branches, rather than rooting in soil. Its unusual growth habit and sculptural form make it a popular choice for plant enthusiasts seeking a distinctive botanical specimen for indoor or outdoor spaces.
Understanding Moosehorn Ferns
Moosehorn ferns have fascinating botanical characteristics, reflecting their epiphytic nature. They develop two frond types. Shield fronds (or basal fronds) are broad, flat, and rounded, growing tightly against the anchoring surface. Initially green, they turn brown and papery, protecting the root ball and collecting organic matter that decomposes for nutrients.
Fertile, antler-like fronds are green, forked, and grow outwards, producing spores on their undersides for reproduction. These fronds give the fern its common name. In their natural habitat, moosehorn ferns thrive in tropical and subtropical regions like Australia, New Guinea, and Southeast Asia, growing in the forest canopy with filtered light and high humidity.
Caring for Moosehorn Ferns
Moosehorn ferns flourish in bright, indirect light, mimicking dappled sunlight under a tree canopy. Place them near an east or north-facing window, or a window with filtered light, as direct sunlight can scorch fronds.
Watering differs for epiphytic moosehorn ferns; they absorb water through roots and shield fronds. For mounted ferns, soak the entire mount in room-temperature water for 15 to 30 minutes weekly. Allow the plant to drain completely and dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot. During warmer, drier periods, increase frequency to every 4-5 days; in cooler months, reduce to every one to two weeks.
High humidity (50-80%) is important. Dry air can lead to brown tips or crispy fronds. Achieve sufficient humidity through regular misting (especially in dry climates or winter), a humidifier, or a pebble tray. Grouping with other plants also helps create a humid microclimate.
Moosehorn ferns prefer warm temperatures (60-80°F / 16-27°C). Temperatures below 50°F (10°C) cause stress and inhibit growth. Avoid placing the plant near cold windows, drafty areas, or heating/cooling vents.
Fertilization supports robust growth during the active growing season (spring and summer). Apply a balanced, liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength monthly or every other watering. Some growers place banana peels behind shield fronds for beneficial nutrients like phosphorus and potassium.
Mounting Your Moosehorn Fern
Mounting a moosehorn fern mimics its natural growth habit and displays its unique form. Mounts can include wooden plaques, cork bark, or tree branches; redwood or cedar are durable choices.
To mount, gently remove the fern from its container and spread its roots. Place a layer of sphagnum moss on the mounting material to provide moisture and a substrate for roots. Position the fern on the moss, ensuring shield fronds point upwards or outwards. Secure the plant to the mount using strong, non-degradable material like monofilament fishing line or plant-safe wire. Wrap it around the moss and plant, anchoring to nails or screws at the board’s edges. Pull the line taut to hold the fern firmly without damaging fronds.
Propagating Moosehorn Ferns
Propagating moosehorn ferns is primarily achieved by dividing pups, small offsets that emerge around the parent plant’s base. This method is more straightforward and reliable for home growers than spore propagation. To divide, separate a pup that has developed its own shield and foliar fronds and some root structure from the main plant.
Using a sharp, clean knife, detach the pup, ensuring it has a portion of the root ball. The separated pup can then be mounted onto its own board or placed in a growing medium like sphagnum moss. Keep the new division warm and consistently moist until it establishes new roots and shows active growth. While spore propagation is possible, it is a more complex and time-consuming process requiring sterile conditions.
Troubleshooting Moosehorn Fern Problems
Brown or crispy frond tips often indicate insufficient humidity or underwatering. Increase misting, use a humidifier, or soak the plant more regularly.
Conversely, soft, yellowish, or mushy fronds, especially at the base, often indicate overwatering or inadequate air circulation, leading to root rot. Allow the plant to dry out more thoroughly between waterings and ensure good airflow. Lack of new growth or small fronds might indicate insufficient light or nutrients. Adjust placement to brighter, indirect light and apply diluted fertilizer during the growing season.
Pests like scale insects and mealybugs can affect moosehorn ferns, appearing as small, brown bumps or white, cottony patches on fronds. Treat infestations by dabbing pests with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or applying insecticidal soap or neem oil, ensuring thorough coverage.