Platycerium superbum (Staghorn Fern)

Scientific Name — Platycerium superbum 

Common Name — Staghorn Fern

Plant Family — Polypodiaceae

Background

Platycerium superbum is an epiphytic fern native to the tropical regions of Australia. It has a complex anatomy, with different types of fronds serving different purposes. Non-fertile fronds can grow up to one meter in length and form a humus-collecting nest.

In natural environments, falling leaves and other plant debris are collected in this nest. They provide nutrients for the plant as they break down. Fertile fronds can grow up to two meters in length, allowing these plants to achieve impressive stature.

Platycerium superbum is aptly nicknamed for its broad, branching ferns that resemble the antlers of a stag or elk. Staghorn fern plants make excellent houseplants that will grow well as potted plants, in hanging baskets, or as mounted ornamentals. 

Growth Requirements

Sun

Platycerium superbum grows best in light shade or medium to bright filtered sunlight. 

Place in a spot that gets direct morning sun or indirect sun in the afternoon. A north- or east-facing window would be ideal. 

Temperature/ Humidity 

Staghorn ferns will thrive in high-humidity environments. Ambient moisture is essential to keeping these sprawling fronds lush and green. A well-lit bathroom or kitchen where there is plenty of humidity is a great spot. 

A temperature of about 70°F is ideal; avoid anything below 60°F. 

Consistent temperature is key. These ferns are not very tolerant of temperature fluctuations or cold, drafty air. 

Water

Keep the soil lightly moist, but not soggy. Water when the top quarter to half of the soil feels dry. In the warm spring and summer months, water about once a week, and during the fall and winter, reduce watering to about once every two to three weeks. 

The frequency of watering will depend on a variety of conditions, such as temperature, the degree of humidity, the amount of available light, and the size of your plant and planter. Use the watering schedule as a rule of thumb and adjust your watering as necessary based on your conditions.

Soil/Roots

In their native environment, staghorn ferns are spoiled by rich, moist, well-drained soil and fertilized by decaying organic matter. Coco coir and compost are excellent amendments to ensure that the soil you use provides adequate moisture and is high in organic nutrients. 

Staghorn ferns have shallow root systems. Plant roots close to the soil surface, so make sure your soil mixture has excellent drainage to avoid root rot. Perlite (up to 25%) is a great amendment for improving drainage and aeration. 

Flowering

Platycerium superbum is a fern and therefore reproduces by spores, not flowers. 

Fertilization

Staghorn ferns, especially younger ones, will benefit from a nutrient boost during the spring and summer. Fertilize once monthly using a balanced fertilizer. Alternatively, you can cover the top of the soil with a layer of compost one inch thick, for a natural, gentle, slow-release fertilizer application. 

Propagation

Staghorn ferns can be reliably propagated by the division of offsets. Use a clean, sharp knife to separate small offsets from the parent plant. Place these in soil, or attach them to a new mount.

Health

Diseases

Because staghorn ferns like moisture and high humidity, gray mold and other types of fungal infections are a concern. Prune away any unhealthy fronds and treat the foliage with a fungicide for plants. If mold is found in the soil, prune away any affected roots and repot the plant in a clean pot using fresh soil. 

Aphids, mealybugs, and scale are attracted to these plants. To treat, wipe leaves with rubbing alcohol or diluted neem oil. 

If infestation is especially bad, washing the foliage with a gentle soap is known to be effective. Be sure to rinse thoroughly. 

Maintenance (pruning, legginess, repotting)

Repot when your staghorn fern is rootbound, and only during the spring and summer. These will do best in a plastic or glazed clay pot, or mounted on a wood fixture. Clay alone would wick away moisture and leave the soil prone to dryness. 

Even in the most ideal conditions, lower fronds will brown and eventually die. Pruning these away will allow the plant to dedicate energy to producing new growth. 

Toxicity

Platycerium superbum is non-toxic to both pets and humans.

FAQs

Why are the fronds on my Platycerium superbum turning brown?

In most cases, this is a normal part of their life cycle, especially if you see it only on the lower leaves. But if you notice widespread crisp, brown leaves, the environment your staghorn fern is in may be too dry or too sunny. You should also make sure the soil remains evenly moist — not dry, but not soggy, either. Follow the light and watering guidelines noted above to keep your staghorn fern healthy.

What if my staghorn fern isn’t growing new fronds?

Ferns grow most actively in the spring and summer. If yours are stalled out in the warmer months, take a look at:

• Light levels: Staghorn ferns prefer bright, filtered light.

• Temperature: The ambient temperature should stay above 70°F. Running the air conditioning a lot can make it too cool, and can also reduce humidity levels.

• Feeding: Applying a balanced fertilizer once a month should help your plant thrive.

Can I mount my staghorn fern instead of putting it in a pot?

You can. Because these plants naturally grow on trees in forests, mounting one on wood makes them feel right at home. Secure staghorn ferns in moss on a board, and mount them in an area that meets their light requirements. Just remember that mounted ferns will need much more watering and should be placed in a humid area.

The team at Tula House can share tips on mounting or potting your staghorn fern for maximum success.