How big does a staghorn fern get?
Staghorn ferns can grow to well over 100 pounds (45 kg), which makes them impractical for mounting. To avoid needing to remove your fern from the wall, prune it periodically as the fronds begin to overwhelm the board.
How to mount and care for a staghorn fern?
Tips to Take Care of Mounted Staghorn Fern
- Location and Sunlight. The Staghorn Fern requires moderate indirect light so, direct sunlight or dim conditions may suffer them.
- Watering Technique. To water the plant, you may soak the rootball until saturated and mist your plant in between as stags absorb water from fronds than roots.
- Maintaining Optimum Temperature and Humidity. ...
How to treat problems with staghorn ferns?
The best way to keep a staghorn fern healthy is to replicate its natural growing conditions as closely as possible. Stop watering the staghorn fern immediately if you notice black spots on the fronds, and move the plant to an area with good air circulation. This is a symptom of a fungus called Rhizoctonia, caused by too much moisture.
Can staghorn ferns grow in shade?
Although staghorn ferns thrive in partial shade, they aren't adapted to living in full shade. If your outdoor area is primarily full shade, observe the yard and other possible growing areas such as a porch, balcony or south-facing wall of your home to see if any place gets at least a little sun.
How many different staghorn ferns are there?
18 speciesStaghorn ferns are a group of about 18 species of epiphytic ferns in the genus Platycerium of the polypod family (Polypodiaceae) native primarily to Africa, Australia and Southeast Asia, whose fronds supposedly resemble the forked antlers of male deer or elk.
Are there different staghorn ferns?
The staghorn fern is one of eighteen fern species within the polypod family, Polypodiaceae. Other family members like the large antler fern (Platycerium grande) and the magnificent antler fern (Platycerium superbum) physically resemble the staghorn fern, but they are different species.
What type of staghorn do I have?
One of the keys to identifying platycerium species is in the shape and location of the spore patches. Some are located on the tips, some in the middle of the frond, and others on lobes. Some have two spore patches, others only one spore patch. Most growers tend to over water staghorn ferns.
How many species of Platycerium are there?
18 fern speciesPlatycerium is a genus of about 18 fern species in the polypod family, Polypodiaceae. Ferns in this genus are widely known as staghorn or elkhorn ferns due to their uniquely shaped fronds....PlatyceriumGenus:Platycerium Desv.Species12 more rows
What are staghorn ferns worth?
Prices vary from $20 to $70 depending on size.
What's the difference between a staghorn and an Elkhorn?
Staghorns and Elkhorns are some of the most spectacular plants you are ever likely to come across. The difference between them is fairly simple. Elkhorns have lots of long thin leaves which look like antlers poking out of the plant. Staghorns are a little cabbage like and produce a large leafy rosette.
Should you clean staghorn fern leaves?
Do staghorn ferns need to be cleaned? Because the fronds are so large, it isn't unusual to find a thin layer of dust on a staghorn fern. Washing staghorn fern plants carefully will remove dust that can block sunlight and, of course, also brightens the appearance of the plant.
How do you pick a healthy staghorn fern?
On a mature Staghorn Fern, it is easy to quickly distinguish between the two because the fertile leaves are the long antler-shaped green leaves, while the sterile leaves are the brown and dry looking leaves at the base of the plant.
Can you root a staghorn fern leaf?
A much less intensive method for propagating staghorn ferns is staghorn fern division. This can be done by cutting a full plant in half with a serrated knife – as long as there are plenty of fronds and roots on both halves they should be fine.
How do you multiply a staghorn fern?
0:027:39Propagate Staghorn Fern by Cutting - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipI'm going to be propagating a staghorn fern and I've got a couple stag horns that I've been nursingMoreI'm going to be propagating a staghorn fern and I've got a couple stag horns that I've been nursing along I must have given one away because I thought I had three I do have another one it's a big one
How do you save a dying staghorn fern?
Soak a dehydrated fern's roots in a bucket of warm water to help hydrate the plant. Change the water daily and continue the soaking process for a few days until the cut fronds show new growth. Once the new growth appears, remove the fern from the water, but continue to water it regularly.
How fast does staghorn fern grow?
Staghorn fern are slow-growing, growing around 4 feet in 10-20 years.
How do you pick a healthy staghorn fern?
On a mature Staghorn Fern, it is easy to quickly distinguish between the two because the fertile leaves are the long antler-shaped green leaves, while the sterile leaves are the brown and dry looking leaves at the base of the plant.
Should you clean staghorn fern leaves?
Do staghorn ferns need to be cleaned? Because the fronds are so large, it isn't unusual to find a thin layer of dust on a staghorn fern. Washing staghorn fern plants carefully will remove dust that can block sunlight and, of course, also brightens the appearance of the plant.
Do Staghorns like coffee grounds?
Banana skins, coffee grounds and tea bags are excellent slow release fertilizers that you can place behind your Staghorn or Elkhorn plants.
Are staghorn ferns supposed to be fuzzy?
The fuzzy dust-like coating is actually part of the plant. Tiny hairs grown from the leaf that create a slight textured surface. These hairs have several positive benefits for your Staghorn.
What is a staghorn fern?
Staghorn ferns are a type of fern that has long growing shoots, which are used to search for light, water and nutrients. The staghorn fern will grow rapidly as they search for these things. They have made a popular addition to offices as they can grow and reach hanging baskets or water bowls. There are some varieties that will grow on a shelf.
How long is a staghorn fern?
It is often grown on a shelf or hanging basket, which is why it is also known as the American Staghorn Fern. The fronds are long and reach 3m (10ft) in length and they grow from the centre of a single stem, which is covered with scales that are coloured black or brown.
How long are basket ferns?
It is often grown on a shelf or hanging basket, which is why it is also known as the Basket Fern. The fronds are long and they reach 3m (10ft) in length.
How big are fern leaves?
The largest leaves are 2m (6.5ft) long and come from the top of a single stalk, which is shaped like an antler. The fronds start growing from the centre and radiate outwards. This fern is often used for decorative purposes.
What is a basket fern?
It is often grown as an indoor plant in the form of a basket, which is why it has become known as the Basket Fern. The fronds grow from the top of a single stalk and are branched at the ends.
What is the most common color of a sage plant?
There are a range of different colours and shades, with gold being the most common. However, there is also a green variety as well. This plant can be grown on a shelf or hanging basket.
What is the shape of the stems on a sage plant?
This plant grows at a nearly vertical angle, the stems are brown and thick and they extend from the top of each frond.
How many varieties of staghorn fern are there?
Luckily, the staghorn fern has over 18 varieties that you can choose from for your home or office. The following are some of the varieties of staghorn you should know.
What is a staghorn fern?
The staghorn fern plant is considered an unusual type of houseplant; this is because the plant is both an epiphyte and a fern. Although, it has less resemblance to other ferns, in its natural habitat, the staghorn fern is seen growing on rocks or tree trunks. The plant is characterized by its two different types of leaves. The lower heart-shaped leaves, and the antler-shaped leaves.
What temperature does a staghorn fern need to be?
The staghorn fern can tolerate the regular room temperature, and even a little cold, however, the plant will not accommodate any temperature range below 50 degrees F.
How to propagate a staghorn fern?
However, we assure you that the process of propagating the staghorn fern is very easy. The staghorn fern can be propagated via division or spores. However, propagation via division is quite common among many gardeners. Read the process below.
Where does the staghorn fern come from?
The staghorn fern is popularly known for its distinctive fronds, with origin from Asia, Australia, South America, and New Guinea, the plant is a member of the fern family and belongs to the genus Platycerium.
How tall do staghorns grow?
The leaves can grow to about 3ft and emerges from the top of a single stem. The insulare variety is perfect for growth in hanging baskets.
Is a staghorn fern a high maintenance plant?
The staghorn fern is an exquisite plant that beautifies whatever space it is placed. The staghorn plant, although not a high maintenance plant, requires specific growth measures. The following tips will further ensure healthy growth for your staghorn fern.
What does a staghorn plant look like?
Its large, forked leaves are grayish-green and, as the plant’s name suggests, resemble large moose antlers. Giant staghorns are more susceptible to frost damage than their smaller counterparts but they can tolerate 30 F for short periods. Platycerium veitchii, native to Australia, has stiff, silvery fronds.
Do staghorn ferns need sun?
Some staghorn fern species need full sun but many grow well in partial shade. Fertilize monthly with 10-10-10 commercial solutions during the plant’s growing season and every other month during dormancy. Staghorns may attract some insects -- mealybugs and scale insects, for example -- but they typically do not have a lot of problems with pests. If the plants are too wet, they may develop rhizoctonia, a fungus that produces black spots on basal fronds. Dry the plant and place it in a less humid environment -- this keep the fungus from spreading.
How many varieties of staghorn ferns are there?
Types of Staghorn Fern. There are around 24 varieties referred to in texts on platyceriums. However, there’s some confusion as to exactly how many types there really are. Some varieties have been merged over the years and considered part of the same species, just different cultivars.
What are the two types of leaves on a staghorn fern?
This fern is unusual in that each plant has two different types of leaves. The uppermost leaves or “shields” will catch fallen leaves, insects, and other debris to utilize for nutrients while shielding the roots from excess water. The lower leaves produce spores from which most types of staghorn ferns propagate.
Why are my staghorn ferns turning brown?
If the tips of your fertile, antler fronds are turning brown, then the only problem is that your staghorn fern is thirsty. Increase the watering frequency a bit more, especially if it’s hot and dry out.
How long is an elkhorn fern?
With heart-shaped sterile fronds that can reach 18″ in length, and forked, long, arched fertile fronds of up to 36″, this elkhorn fern is one of the most popularly grown. It can be grown outdoors in sheltered locations, but is most commonly cultivated as an indoor houseplant.
What is a staghorn fern?
An unusual tropical plant, the staghorn fern is grown often as a houseplant or hanging plant. These fascinating plants often have multiple kinds of leaves which serve different purposes, some of which are antler-like in shape. And the shape gives this unusual type of plant its name, as if there were many green pairs of horns draping elegantly ...
What are the two types of leaf?
This variety produces two types of leaves. The first is an upright, broad shield leaf, and the second is a long, dangling forked fertile leaf. These longer leaves carry the spores from which the plant propagates. Platycerium coronarium originates from southeastern Asia, and is an epiphyte, commonly known as an air plant.
Where does the Australian staghorn come from?
Sometimes referred to as the Australian clumping staghorn, it originates in Australia and New Guinea. It’s said to be related to Platycerium bifurcatum, but has a much shallower forking pattern and smaller shields.
What does a staghorn fern look like?
Jon VanZile is a Master Gardener and the author of "Houseplants for a Healthy Home.". Staghorn ferns look very much like deer or elk antlers, hence their unusual name. Native to Asia and Australia, the plants are part of the Polypodiaceae family—they grow slowly, but end up being quite large and impressive once mature.
How to propagate staghorn fern?
Staghorn ferns can be propagated by spore or division. Large, mature staghorn can be easily divided into smaller plants, and even small "chunks" that include a leaf and a bit of root ball can be potted individually. Make sure new divisions are kept warm and moist until they are growing independently.
Why do staghorn ferns have black spots?
More frequently, you'll see black spot on a staghorn fern, directly related to too much humidity or traveling spores.
How many species of Platycerium are there?
There are 17 species of Platycerium, but only one, the staghorn fern, is truly common in home cultivation. Staghorn ferns were once considered difficult to grow, but today they are quite popular. These ferns are epiphytic, which means they grow mounted on plaques or other substrates. They have two distinct leaf forms—small, ...
Do staghorn ferns need moss?
Staghorn ferns are epiphytes, growing on the sides of trees or other plants in the wild, and will therefore thrive in similar conditions in your home. To mount, you'll need a starting lump of peat, compost, moss, or other organic matter to act as the base, but beyond that should not need additional soil.
Can staghorn ferns be kept in shade?
Staghorn ferns prefer to be kept in a location that boasts consistent, shaded light. That being said, they can handle more sunlight if given enough water, warmth, and humidity. Just be cautious about allowing any direct rays to hit the fragile fronds, as they can burn easily.
What kinds of staghorn ferns are there?
Staghorn ferns are known by several other names, including elkhorn ferns, Australian elk’s horn ferns, and antelope ears. There are several Platycerium species available for sale, and also some crosses and cultivars to add even more diversity. This video from Herb Halling of the Los Angeles County Arboretum gives a comprehensive overview of all the options available:
Does a staghorn tree hurt?
This association does not hurt the tree. The staghorn does not steal nutrients or damage the tree like parasitic plants such as mistletoe, instead sustaining itself from whatever dead leaves and rotting bark can be trapped as it falls from above, or is washed down in rainwater.
Can a mounted fern be mounted in the bathroom?
This is the ideal scenario for your ferns too, and can be reproduced by allowing for cycles of dry and wet conditions. The fern should be mounted away from drafts to help protect against dehydration, and occasional misting is recommended to maintain humidity. Some enthusiasts will mount their Staghorn in the bathroom, either permanently if light levels are sufficient, or for occasional humidifying visits to rejuvenate the plant.
Can staghorn ferns be moved outside?
Because of this tropical origin, staghorn ferns grown for domestic appreciation are best suited to hotter climates or indoor locations where there is little danger of frost or cold damage. If mounted or hanging, the plant can be moved outside in summer months.
Do staghorns need fertilizer?
Staghorns need additional minimal soil or fertilizer once established. If you are concerned that the fern is failing to thrive, a low dose of balanced fertilizer can be used occasionally to help it along. In time, the fern can also grow to overwhelm the original mount, at which point it can be transferred to a larger mount with a fresh dose of leaf mold based compost – a sort of “repotting” onto a larger fake tree!
Do ferns spread through the soil?
Ferns have a reputation as invasive plants that spread aggressively through the yard, but this reputation is not really deserved. In fact, only a few fern species spread through the soil - most are...
Do staghorns like shade?
A final consideration is the position of the mount relative to light. Although staghorns prefer partial shade, the bifurcated fronds will grow towards the sun. This is how they are adapted to their natural climate, up in the canopy of the rainforest and searching for sunlight. Accordingly, it is best to position the ferns facing towards the light source (though not in direct sun). If the fern is positioned facing to the side or away from the light, the fronds may grow to be lopsided and asymmetrical.
How many species of staghorn fern are there?
Staghorn fern is a member of the Polypodiaceae family; there are presently eighteen known species, as well as many varieties and hybrids of this plant.
How to protect staghorn fern from frost?
Keep in mind, staghorn fern will need protection from any freezing temperatures. Mounting your staghorn somewhere protected, like under a tree or on a porch, will help protect it from frosts. However, gardeners in North and Central Florida should bring their ferns inside when extremely cold temperatures are expected, if possible.
What is a small plant that grows in a basket called?
When grown in a basket, small plants called pups will grow out of the back and sides of the basket to eventually cover the whole surface. Large-growing staghorns can be remounted or divided if needed. You'll know it's time to remount your fern when the basal fronds have grown to the sides of your mount surface.
Is staghorn fern easy to grow?
While some species of staghorn fern can be a bit difficult to care for, these two species are low-maintenance and commonly grown. Other easy-to-grow species of staghorn fern are P. alcicorne and P. hillii.
Can staghorn ferns survive in cold weather?
Staghorn fern flourishes in warm, humid climates and should be protected from cold conditons. It's generally considered a tender plant; most species can't tolerate temperatures below 55°F. However, Platycerium bifurcatum and Platycerium veitchii can withstand temperatures as low as 30°F. While some species of staghorn fern can be a bit difficult to care for, these two species are low-maintenance and commonly grown. Other easy-to-grow species of staghorn fern are P. alcicorne and P. hillii.
Can staghorn ferns survive freezing temperatures?
Keep in mind, staghorn fern will need protection from any freezing temperatures. Mounting your staghorn somewhere protected, like under a tree or on a porch, will help protect it from frosts. However, gardeners in North and Central Florida should bring their ferns inside when extremely cold temperatures are expected, if possible. ...
Is staghorn fern a tropical plant?
Staghorn Ferns. Once an uncommon plant find, staghorn fern ( Platycerium spp.) is now quite popular and widely available. Beginner (or easily-distracted) gardeners in Florida should consider growing this fascinating tropical plant. Staghorn fern thrives in Florida's heat and humidity; it grows quite well in South Florida ...
How many species of staghorn fern are there?
There are about 12,000 fern species, and ferns are amongst the most ancient plants.
What is the second type of staghorn fern?
The second type of staghorn fern frond is called the shield frond. These are the round, hard plate-like leaves that surround the base of the plant. Their function is to protect the plant roots, and take up water and nutrients. These fronds start out green, but eventually turn brown and dry up. This is a totally normal part of the staghorn fern life-cycle -- in fact, this is one of the most common misconceptions in staghorn fern care. A brown shield frond does not mean your staghorn fern is dying, and dried shield fronds should never be removed!
How to keep a staghorn fern from misting?
If your staghorn fern is in a space where it receives lots of ambient humidity, like a bathroom, you’ll probably be able to reduce your misting and watering. More light or heat = more watering. During the summer, be especially attentive to your stag.
How to get rid of staghorn fern?
Soaking your staghorn fern. Soak your staghorn fern in a sink or basin of water for 10-20 minutes, or until the roots are fully saturated.
What are staghorn fern leaves called?
Fern leaves are actually called fronds , and staghorn ferns have two types. The first, and most prominent, is the “antler” frond - these are the large, bifurcated leaves that shoot out of the center of the plant, and from which staghorn ferns get their names, since they resemble the antlers of deer or moose.
Why is my staghorn fern not growing?
Under and over-watering are the most common causes of staghorn fern failure. There is no hard and fast rule as to how often a staghorn fern will need watering - the amount of light, humidity and heat they receive in your home will dictate your watering schedule. However, here are a few rules that tend to work well for us:
What is the final part of a staghorn fern?
The final part of the staghorn fern is the root ball. Since stags are epiphytes, their root systems are fairly minimal, and help the plant attach to its home. Because the roots are so minimal, staghorn ferns need extensive drainage and are particularly susceptible to root rot.
How big can a staghorn get?
A mature staghorn can grow more than 1 metre (3.3 ft) wide.
How do staghorns propagate?
Staghorns can be propagated by spores produced on the underside of the fertile fronds. Colonial Platycerium can also be vegetatively propagated by carefully dividing large healthy ones into smaller, separate plants. These new plants can then be attached to board mounts or be strapped to trees until they take to the tree themselves.
