Platycerium bifurcatum

Common name: Staghorn Fern
                                               
Special Notes: The Staghorn Fern is epiphytic, naturally growing on trees from Australia to Indonesia. These specimens are mounted on wood boards. Fertile fronds grow to 2-3'. When mature, velvety brown spore-producing areas will develop, and the fern eventually reproduces into a large ball that can be divided. It does best in bright indirect light indoors or outdoors. Keep evenly moist, but do not overwater. Pest resistant, occasional scale and mealy bugs may be wiped off.

Family: Polypodiaceae
Native to: Indonesia, Australia, New Caledonia, Norfolk Island
Form: Mounted fern
Size: Up to 6’
Flowers: None (fern spores)
Light: Sun to partial shade
Water: Water regularly in dry months; indoors, water every 1-2 weeks
Hardiness: Cold tolerant to 25°F
Soil: Leave mounted or epiphyte soil (e.g., orchid mix)