Platycerium bifurcatum – Elkhorn Fern

The elkhorn fern, or Platycerium bifurcatum, is an epiphytic fern with a distinctive and decorative form of growth. The fern grows from a collection of plantlets, which attach to the host tree. Each of these smaller plants has a central nest frond, and this central nest sends out long antler shaped fronds. The plant can become quite large as it grows new plantlets. Elkhorns are native to coastal Queensland and NSW.

Elkhorn ferns need a shady spot and like to be kept moist and are not frost hardy.

Read more about Native Ferns, Palms and Cycads

 

Family : Polypodiaceae
Cultivar Name:
Plant Type : Fern
Width : 2
Flowering Time :
Soil Type :
Climate Zone : Sub-tropical, Warm temperate, Cool temperate
Growth Habit : Evergreen, Weeping
Soil Moisture : Moist moderate drainage, Needs regular watering
Special Uses :
Scientific Name: Platycerium bifurcatum
Common Name : Elkhorn Fern
Height : 2
Flower Color :
pH Level : Acid, Neutral
Plant Environment : Courtyard
Light : Light shade, Half shade, Heavy shade
Lifespan : Perennial
Frost Tolerance : Not frost tolerant
Attracts Wildlife :