Staghorn ferns are epiphytic plants that grow on other plants or structures, not in soil. Their distinct appearance, resembling a stag’s antlers, makes them a striking addition to any plant collection. These ferns come in various forms and sizes.
Understanding Staghorn Fern Varieties
The genus Platycerium includes about 18 species, each with variations in frond shapes, sizes, and growth habits. All staghorn ferns have two main frond types: sterile basal fronds and fertile foliar fronds. Sterile fronds are typically rounded or shield-shaped, growing flat against the mounting surface to protect roots and collect nutrients. Fertile fronds are prominent, antler-like structures that emerge from the base, producing spores for reproduction. These frond characteristics, such as how they fork, their texture, color, and size, differentiate varieties.
Common and Popular Staghorn Fern Varieties
Platycerium bifurcatum, the common staghorn fern, has heart-shaped sterile fronds up to 18 inches long that become papery and brown, forming a protective nest. Its fertile fronds are gray-green, forked, strap-shaped, and can reach 35 inches. This robust species spreads 2 to 3 feet and produces offsets, leading to a clumping display.
Platycerium superbum, native to Australia, is a popular variety known for its large, solitary growth. It forms an upright “nest” of wide, sterile fronds over 3 feet wide. These broad, kidney-shaped fronds turn brown as they mature, layering to collect humus. Its fertile fronds are broad, branching, and pendulous, often hanging 2 to 3 feet. Unlike P. bifurcatum, P. superbum does not produce offsets and is propagated from spores.
Platycerium veitchii, also called the “Silver Elkhorn” or “Desert Staghorn,” has a striking silvery-green appearance. Its narrow, upright fertile fronds are covered in dense white hairs (trichomes), giving it a frosty look and helping it tolerate drier conditions. The shield fronds are rounded to kidney-shaped with deeply cut, finger-like lobes. This species typically reaches a wingspan of 20 to 40 inches.
Unique and Rare Staghorn Fern Varieties
Platycerium ridleyi, or Ridley’s Staghorn Fern, is known for its upright growth and distinct frond structure. Native to Southeast Asian rainforests, its shield fronds are deeply lobed with prominent veins that create spaces, sometimes inhabited by ants. Its fertile fronds are upright and antler-like, with the spore patch on a separate, elevated lobe—a rare characteristic. This fern is not large.
Platycerium wandae, native to New Guinea, is a giant staghorn fern. Its fertile fronds can reach over 6 feet, and its sterile fronds can spread similarly. It is identified by prominent frills around its central growth bud, not seen in other Platycerium species. Its massive sterile fronds form an upright, basket-like structure, while fertile fronds have two distinct spore-bearing lobes, one often elevated and the other hanging down.
Platycerium coronarium, the Crown Staghorn, is a large epiphytic fern from maritime Southeast Asia, reaching up to 10 feet long and 5 feet wide. Its sterile nest fronds form a crown-like basket with erect, lobed “fingers” at the top to trap organic matter. The fertile fronds are long, pendulous, and repeatedly branched, forming a net-like structure below the nest fronds. They bear semicircular spore patches on their underside.
Caring for Different Staghorn Fern Varieties
Staghorn ferns generally need bright, indirect light, warm temperatures, and moderate to high humidity. However, specific needs vary by variety. Platycerium bifurcatum tolerates varying humidity and cooler temperatures, even brief drops to 30°F, making it forgiving for home environments. It thrives with consistent moisture but needs good drainage to prevent root rot.
In contrast, Platycerium superbum is sensitive to cold, heat, and overwatering, requiring precise environmental control. It prefers bright, indirect light and high humidity, mimicking its native rainforest. Water carefully, letting the root ball dry slightly between applications.
Rare varieties like Platycerium ridleyi and Platycerium wandae have specific, demanding care. P. ridleyi needs high humidity, bright, indirect light, excellent air circulation, and a slightly drier medium. It is prone to rot if overwatered, especially when cold, and its growing point must remain free of standing water. P. wandae, a giant species, prefers consistent moisture (not excessive wetness), high humidity, and bright, filtered shade. It is sensitive to temperatures below 40°F.
Platycerium veitchii, from semi-arid regions, is more drought-tolerant and thrives in high light. Its silvery hairs help it withstand drier conditions.