Platycerium bifercatum - elkhorn fern

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

 


Plant Information

Plant Type - Fern
Common Name - Elkhorn Fern
Scientific Name - Platycerium bifurcatum
Family - Polypodiaceae
Cultivar Name -
Other Common Name -
Minimum Height - 1
Maximum Height - 2
Minimum Width - 1
Maximum Width - 2
Flower Colour -
Flowering Time -
pH Level - Acid, Neutral
Soil Type -
Plant Environment - Courtyard
Climate Zone - Sub-tropical, Warm temperate, Cool temperate
Light - Light shade, Half shade, Heavy shade
Growth Habit - Evergreen, Weeping
Life Span - Perennial
Soil Moisture - Moist moderate drainage, Needs regular watering
Propagation Method -
Frost Tolerance - Not frost tolerant
Plant Usage - Feature plant, Attractive foliage, Wow factor
Special Uses -
Attracts Wildlife -
Angus Cultivar -