Platycerium bifurcatum - Fougère Staghorn

Scientific name

Platycerium bifurcatum

General description

Platycerium bifurcatum is a majestic epiphytic fern often called the staghorn fern. It has two types of fronds: rounded basal fronds that cling to the support, and branched fertile fronds resembling antlers. It adds a sculptural, tropical touch to any interior.

Origin

Native to tropical regions of Southeast Asia, including Australia, Indonesia, and New Guinea, it grows naturally on trees or rocks in humid forests.

Care

• Light : Bright to filtered indirect light; avoid direct sun which can burn the fronds.
• Watering : Water by soaking the support or the entire plant in water, then let it drain well; respect humid but not constant cycles.
• Humidity : Very high; ideally 60-80% or more, frequent misting recommended.
• Temperature : between ~18 and 27°C; avoid cold temperatures and freezing exposures.
• Substrate : often mounted on wood, board or support, or in a very airy mixture containing bark, coconut fiber, sawdust, sphagnum.

Special advice

• Do not repot frequently; it prefers to remain stable on its support.
• Mist fertile fronds regularly to maintain good humidity around the extended fronds.
• Add a little mild, diluted fertilizer to the water in spring/summer to stimulate growth.
• Avoid damaging the basal fronds, they are essential for anchoring the plant.
• Toxic if swallowed to animals and humans — avoid direct contact if ingestion is possible.