The Elephant Staghorn Fern, Platycerium elephantotis, is an epiphytic plant native to tropical Africa, naturally growing on trees and rocks rather than in soil. It features two distinct frond types: large, rounded basal fronds that resemble an elephant’s ear, which protect the root ball and collect nutrients, and broad, un-forked fertile fronds that emerge from the base.
Caring for Your Elephant Staghorn Fern
Light Requirements
The Elephant Staghorn Fern thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural habitat beneath a tree canopy. Direct sunlight can scorch its delicate fronds, leading to discoloration or damage. Insufficient light can also cause slow growth. An ideal indoor placement is near a window that receives filtered light, such as an east or west-facing window.
Watering Techniques
Proper watering is crucial for this fern. It prefers to be kept consistently moist but never waterlogged, which can lead to root rot. The Elephant Staghorn Fern does not like to dry out completely between waterings; it does best when kept evenly moist. A good technique involves soaking the entire root ball in water for 10 to 20 minutes until saturated. After soaking, allow the plant to drip dry before rehanging.
Humidity and Temperature
High humidity, ideally between 50% and 70%, is important for the Elephant Staghorn Fern. Consistently warm temperatures, between 60°F and 80°F, are also preferred. To increase humidity, use a humidifier, group it with other plants, or place it in naturally humid areas like a bathroom or kitchen.
Fertilization
Fertilizing the Elephant Staghorn Fern supports vigorous growth. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, diluted to half strength, can be applied monthly during spring and summer. During fall and winter months, when the plant’s growth slows, reduce fertilization frequency or cease it entirely. Mature ferns may require less frequent feeding, benefiting from one or two applications per year.
Mounting and Display
Staghorn ferns are epiphytes, meaning they naturally grow by attaching themselves to other plants or objects for support rather than rooting in soil. Mounting the fern replicates its natural growth habit and provides optimal air circulation around its root system. This also allows for creative and visually appealing displays. Suitable mounting materials include wood plaques, cork bark, or tree fern slabs.
To prepare, soak sphagnum moss until saturated. Gently remove the fern from its container, tease apart its roots, and position wet sphagnum moss around the root ball. Place the fern, with its moss-wrapped roots, onto the chosen mounting material, ensuring the shield fronds face downwards.
Secure the fern firmly to the mount using fishing line, nylon string, or wire, wrapping it crisscross around the root ball and plaque. Mounted ferns can be displayed on walls, as hanging art pieces, or attached to tree trunks in appropriate climates.
Propagation
The most common method for propagating Elephant Staghorn Ferns is through the division of pups, also known as offsets. These small plantlets naturally form at the base of the parent plant, emerging from the root system. Carefully detach a pup that has developed its own roots and some fronds, ensuring it is large enough to survive independently.
Once separated, the pup can be mounted onto its own plaque using sphagnum moss, similar to how a mature fern is mounted. Alternatively, small pups can be started in pots filled with a well-draining, peat-based mix until they establish. Provide the new plantlet with consistent moisture and bright, indirect light to encourage successful establishment and growth.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Brown or crispy fronds often indicate low humidity or insufficient watering. These ferns require consistent moisture and high ambient humidity to prevent the fronds from drying out. Increasing misting frequency or providing a humid environment can help alleviate this issue.
Yellowing fronds can stem from overwatering, nutrient deficiencies, or excessive direct light. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which manifests as yellowing and sometimes wilting. If yellowing occurs, assess watering practices and ensure the plant is not sitting in soggy conditions. A lack of essential nutrients can also cause yellowing, suggesting the need for a diluted fertilizer application.
Stunted growth may be a sign of inadequate light, insufficient nutrients, or improper watering. Adjusting light exposure to a brighter, indirect setting and ensuring consistent moisture can encourage healthier growth.
Pests like mealybugs and scale insects can occasionally affect Elephant Staghorn Ferns. If detected, these can be treated by gently scraping them off and applying a diluted solution of neem oil or insecticidal soap.