Also known as Common Staghorn Fern · Staghorn Fern
Platycerium bifurcatum, commonly known as Elkhorn Fern, is a striking epiphytic fern with unique, forked fronds, resembling deer antlers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, indirect light.
75% intensity
Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the fronds. A north or east-facing window is ideal. Can tolerate lower light, but growth will be slower.
Keep consistently moist but not soggy.
75% intensity
Allow the top layer of the potting mix to dry out slightly between waterings. Use filtered or rainwater if possible.
Well-draining, peat-based mix
50% intensity
Average room temperatures.
50% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 18-24°C (65-75°F). Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations and cold drafts.
Moderate feeding during growing season.
50% intensity
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 2-3 months in spring and summer. Do not fertilize in fall or winter.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the potting medium begins to dry out, typically every 1-2 weeks. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Reduce watering frequency during cooler, dormant periods.
Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogged conditions.
Prune to remove dead, damaged, or yellowing fronds. Sterilize pruning tools before use.
Pruning is generally minimal for Elkhorn Ferns, focusing on maintaining a tidy appearance and removing spent growth to encourage new frond development.
Propagate by spores or by dividing mature plants. Spores require specific sterile conditions and are best handled by experienced growers.
Division involves carefully separating the rhizomes of established plants during repotting.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix, often a mix of orchid bark and sphagnum moss.
Mount on a bark slab or use a large hanging basket to accommodate its natural epiphytic growth habit.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Elkhorn Fern (Platycerium bifurcatum)
Where Elkhorn Fern (Platycerium bifurcatum) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Polypodiaceae |
| Genus | Platycerium |
| Species | Platycerium bifurcatum |
Similar in genus Platycerium
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
