The Silver Elkhorn Fern (Platycerium veitchii) is a unique and visually striking epiphytic fern, native to semi-arid regions of eastern Australia. It naturally grows on trees or rocks, rather than in soil. Its common name comes from its distinctive silvery-green fronds, which resemble elk antlers.
Unique Characteristics
The Silver Elkhorn Fern has two distinct types of fronds, each serving a specific purpose. Sterile “shield fronds,” also called basal fronds, grow flattened against the mounting surface and eventually turn brown. These fronds form a protective base, retain water, and capture nutrients from falling debris.
The fertile “foliage fronds” are upright, deeply lobed, resembling elk antlers. They are covered in fine, silvery hairs (trichomes), which give the plant its metallic sheen. These trichomes are vital for the fern’s survival, functioning to reduce water loss, reflect intense sunlight, and help the plant withstand drought conditions. The silvery color becomes more pronounced in brighter light.
Comprehensive Care
Caring for a Silver Elkhorn Fern requires understanding its epiphytic nature and replicating its natural growing conditions. The plant thrives when mounted, mimicking its habit of growing on other surfaces.
Light Needs
Silver Elkhorn Ferns prefer bright, indirect light for optimal growth and to maintain their distinctive silvery appearance. While they can tolerate some direct sunlight if acclimated, intense sun can scorch fronds. Ideal placement is a few feet from a south or west-facing window, or in an east-facing window.
Watering Practices
As an epiphyte, this fern does not grow in soil. It absorbs water through its fronds and root ball, which should dry slightly between waterings to prevent rot. A common method is to soak the entire mounted plant in water for 10-20 minutes, allowing excess water to drain completely afterwards. Misting fertile fronds can also supplement humidity.
Humidity and Temperature
These ferns thrive in high humidity, ideally 60% or higher, which can be achieved by using a pebble tray or a humidifier. Consistent humidity is beneficial, though the fern is drought-tolerant due to its semi-arid adaptations. They prefer stable temperatures between 60 to 80°F (15 to 27°C) and are not tolerant of frost or cold drafts.
Mounting and Substrate
Mounting is a key aspect of care, mimicking the fern’s natural growth. Suitable mounting materials include cork bark, wood slabs, or wire baskets. Secure the fern’s base onto the surface with a well-draining, airy substrate, most commonly sphagnum moss. Place moistened sphagnum moss on the board, position the root ball, and pack more moss around it to secure the plant and retain moisture. The plant is then typically secured with twine or wire, which will eventually be covered by expanding shield fronds.
Feeding Your Fern
During the active growing season (spring and summer), Silver Elkhorn Ferns benefit from regular fertilization. Use a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer, such as a 1:1:1 organic or 8:8:8 chemical formula, applied at about one-quarter strength. Fertilization can occur monthly for young plants or once or twice during the entire growing season for established plants. Effective methods include foliar feeding by misting the solution onto fertile fronds or soaking the entire plant in diluted fertilizer water.
Propagation Methods
Propagation is primarily done by separating “pups,” or offsets, that emerge from the base of the mature plant. These pups are miniature versions of the parent plant. Carefully detach a pup once it has developed its own shield fronds and a small root system. Use a sharp, clean knife to excise the pup, ensuring to leave as much of its own plant material and roots intact. The separated pup can then be mounted onto its own board or placed in a well-draining medium like sphagnum moss.
Silver Elkhorn Ferns can also be propagated from spores, found as brown patches on the underside of mature fertile fronds. While less common for home growers, this method involves collecting mature spores, sterilizing a growing medium (like sphagnum moss), and sowing them on the surface without covering, as they need light to germinate. Consistent moisture and indirect light are crucial for germination, which can take several months to a year before small plantlets develop.
Common Issues and Solutions
Silver Elkhorn Ferns are robust plants, but improper care can lead to common issues. Understanding these problems and their remedies can help maintain the fern’s health and appearance. Browning frond tips often indicate underwatering or insufficient humidity. If the entire plant appears dry and brittle, increasing watering frequency or providing more humidity, possibly through regular misting or a pebble tray, can help.
Black spots on the fronds or a mushy base can signal overwatering or poor air circulation, leading to fungal issues or root rot. Allow the plant to dry thoroughly between waterings and ensure good drainage. A lack of the characteristic silvery sheen on the fronds might be due to low light conditions or physical disturbance. The fine trichomes that create the silvery appearance can be rubbed off by excessive handling or strong winds. Provide adequate bright, indirect light for better coloration. Although rare, Silver Elkhorn Ferns can occasionally be affected by common houseplant pests like mealybugs or scale insects. These can typically be addressed by gently wiping them off with a damp cloth or applying an insecticidal soap solution.