Tropicals
Platycerium bifurcatum
Staghorn fern
Forked green fronds resemble antlers above rounded shield fronds that protect the roots. This fern naturally grows attached to trees, so a mounted display or airy basket suits it well. Brown shield fronds are a normal part of the plant, not dead leaves to remove.
At a glance
- Mature size
- Height: 2–3 ft. (species reference) · Spread: Up to about 3 ft. at maturity
- Water
- Soak roots and shield fronds; allow some drying
- Light
- Bright indirect light
Sizes & prices
- 8"$29.99
Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.
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Resistance & tolerances
- Wet soil
- Overwatering readily causes rot.
Pet safety
- Cats & dogs
- Listed as non-toxic by ASPCA; chewing any plant may still cause stomach upset.
If a pet eats a potentially toxic plant, contact your veterinarian promptly.
Seasonal interest
- Foliage
- Antler-like fronds; brown spore patches underneath are normal.
Growing & care
- Growing medium
- Airy sphagnum mount or very well-drained basket medium.
- Winter
- Bring inside before nights drop into the 40s°F; normal indoor temperatures above 55°F suit it.
- Maintenance
- Keep brown shield fronds and the fine fuzzy coating on green fronds. Remove only withered fertile fronds.
- Feeding
- Dilute balanced fertilizer monthly in warm weather.
- Humidity
- Moderate humidity and good air circulation.
- Pests
- Watch for scale and mealybugs.
Sources & photo credits
University of Wisconsin Extension
Photo: Forest and Kim Starr · CC BY 2.0
Image notes: Platycerium bifurcatum. Available sizes and selections vary. Uncropped.
Reviewed September 26, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.