Plant of the week: Staghorn Fern
Meet the staghorn fern—nature’s quirky wall art! With its antler-like fronds and unique growth habit, this epiphyte loves to hang out (literally) on mounts or boards. Low-maintenance and eye-catching, it’s perfect for adding a touch of jungle vibes to your space. Just give it some humidity and indirect light, and you’re good to go! 🌿🦌
PLANTS
Grace Chen
2/10/20252 min read
If you’re looking for a plant that’s equal parts fascinating and low-maintenance, meet the staghorn fern (Platycerium). With its dramatic, antler-like fronds and unique growth habit, this epiphyte is like a piece of living art. Whether mounted on a board or hung in a basket, it’s sure to turn heads. Let’s dive into what makes this plant so special and how to keep it thriving.
Plant Characteristics
Staghorn ferns are epiphytes, meaning they grow on other plants (like trees) in the wild without harming them. They have two types of fronds:
Shield fronds: These are the flat, round leaves that clasp onto surfaces and help the plant anchor itself. They also collect water and nutrients.
Fertile fronds: These are the showstoppers—long, branching, and antler-like, giving the plant its name.
Over time, staghorn ferns can grow into impressive, sprawling specimens, making them a striking addition to any plant collection.
Growth Tips for a Happy Staghorn Fern
Light it right: Staghorn ferns love bright, indirect light. Think of the dappled sunlight they’d get under a forest canopy. Avoid direct sun, which can scorch their fronds.
Mounting magic: These ferns are happiest when mounted on a wooden board or hung in a basket. Use sphagnum moss to secure their roots and mimic their natural growing conditions.
Watering wisdom: Keep the moss or growing medium consistently moist but not soggy. A good soak once a week (or when the moss feels dry) usually does the trick. In drier climates, mist the fronds occasionally to boost humidity.
Feed gently: During the growing season (spring and summer), fertilize your staghorn fern monthly with a diluted liquid fertilizer. Apply it to the base of the plant or mist it onto the fronds.
Humidity helps: Staghorn ferns thrive in humid environments. If your home is dry, consider placing a humidifier nearby or grouping it with other plants to create a mini humidity zone.
Pruning & care: Trim away any brown or dead fronds to keep your plant looking tidy. Don’t worry—this is normal as the plant grows and sheds older leaves.
Fun Fact
Staghorn ferns are often called “living wall art” because of their unique mounting style. They’re a favorite among plant enthusiasts for their ability to transform blank walls into lush, green focal points.
Final Thoughts
The staghorn fern is a conversation starter and a joy to care for. With its quirky growth habit and stunning foliage, it’s perfect for adding a touch of the tropics to your home. Just give it some light, moisture, and love, and it’ll reward you with years of beauty. Ready to hang out with a staghorn fern? Go for it—you won’t regret it! 🌿✨
