Staghorn Ferns: The Unique Plants That Look Like Antlers
Staghorn ferns are unique plants that look like antlers. They have two types of leaves: one that resembles the horns of a large herbivore (like a deer or elk) and one that is flat and papery. Staghorn ferns are epiphytes, which means they grow on trees in the wild. They are native to tropical and subtropical regions of the world.
Types of Staghorn Ferns
There are 17 different species of staghorn fern. The most common type is the Platycerium alcicorne, which is also known as the elkhorn fern or antelope ears. Other types of staghorn ferns include:
- Platycerium bifurcatum (staghorn fern)
- Platycerium grande (giant staghorn fern)
- Platycerium holttumii (Holttum’s staghorn fern)
- Platycerium superbum (superb staghorn fern)
How to Grow Staghorn Ferns
Staghorn ferns are relatively easy to grow. They can be grown outdoors in warm-season locations and indoors elsewhere.
Outdoors:
- Choose a location with partial shade or low light conditions.
- Plant the fern in a humus-rich medium.
- Mount the fern on a piece of wood or in a basket.
- Water the fern regularly, but allow the potting mix to dry out between waterings.
- Fertilize the fern once per month with a balanced fertilizer.
Indoors:
- Choose a location with bright indirect light.
- Plant the fern in a well-draining potting mix.
- Mount the fern on a piece of wood or in a basket.
- Water the fern regularly, but allow the potting mix to dry out between waterings.
- Fertilize the fern once per month with a balanced fertilizer.
How to Propagate Staghorn Ferns
Staghorn ferns can be propagated from pups, which are small plants that grow around the base of the main plant. To propagate a staghorn fern from a pup:
- Use a sharp, sterile knife to cut the pup from the parent plant.
- Wrap the end of the cut in damp sphagnum moss.
- Tie the pup to a piece of wood or bark.
- Provide the same care for the pup as you would for an adult staghorn fern.
Caring for Staghorn Ferns
Staghorn ferns are relatively low-maintenance plants. However, they do have some specific needs:
- Humidity: Staghorn ferns prefer high humidity. You can increase the humidity around your fern by misting it regularly or placing it on a tray of pebbles filled with water.
- Light: Staghorn ferns need bright indirect light. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves.
- Temperature: Staghorn ferns prefer warm temperatures between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate cooler temperatures, but they may not grow as well.
- Water: Staghorn ferns need to be watered regularly, but they should not be allowed to sit in water. Allow the potting mix to dry out between waterings.
- Fertilizer: Staghorn ferns should be fertilized once per month with a balanced fertilizer.
Common Problems with Staghorn Ferns
Staghorn ferns are susceptible to a few common problems, including:
- Black spot: Black spot is a fungal disease that can cause black spots on the leaves of the fern. To prevent black spot, avoid watering the fern over the foliage and minimize humidity indoors.
- Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white insects that can infest staghorn ferns. To control mealybugs, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them from the fern.
- Scale: Scale are small, brown insects that can infest staghorn ferns. To control scale, use a horticultural oil to smother them.
Conclusion
Staghorn ferns are unique and beautiful plants that are relatively easy to grow. By following the tips in this article, you can keep your staghorn fern healthy and thriving for many years to come.
