Platycerium bifurcatum
common staghorn fern
- Position: bright indirect light
- Rate of growth: slow
- Hardiness: tender (indoors only)
- Current height: approximately 35cm (+ or - 10% including the pot)
- Pot: choose a 14cm pot cover to give a good fit over the pot
In its natural environment, this unusual (epiphytic) fern would usually be found attached to the branches or stem of a tree, but these ones have been potted up into hanging baskets so they can easily be displayed in the home. The combination of their flattened sterile fronds and gently arching, elkhorn-like fertile fronds is both dramatic and elegant - and will help to bring a tropical feel to the display.
Please note that the pot in the photograph is not supplied with the plant (which is sent out in a simple nursery alternative), but we have a wide and wonderful range on our website to choose from. - Home care: Ideally suited to a humid environment, these plants should be kept well watered in summer, and misted with water on a regular basis - particularly in winter when the central heating is turned on. Maintain temperatures above 10°C in winter and repot when necessary using a freely draining mix of equal parts leaf mould, sphagnum moss, charcoal and loam.