Elkhorn fern

Elkhorn fern Care

Platycerium bifurcatum

What is the plant

Platycerium is a fern plant from the Polypodiaceae family with a rather eccentric appearance. Even though this greenie is not as popular as some other houseplants, it's one of the best choices for a complete novice and would be an original and beautiful addition to anyone's home.

Elkhorn is native to the rainforests of Australia and New Guinea. The plant is 2-3 feet (60-93 cm) in height. Like all ferns, it does not flower. Platycerium's stem is short and wide, resembling the top of a bottle. It also boasts lush foliage. In fact, this green beauty got its name because of its leaves' signature branched shape.

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Humidity

High

Lighting

Part Sun

Temperature

13°C - 15°C

Hardiness zone

9a - 11b

Difficulty

Hard

Hibernation

Cold Period

How to Care for the Plant

Water
We recommend watering your fern regularly. However, it's always best to check how moist the soil is before giving your greenie another sip! During warmer months, it's best to water Platycerium twice a week.
Pruning
You do not have to trim the leaves of the plant, even if they have turned yellow. Just make sure to keep the pot clean of fallen plant parts!
Fertilizer
Feed your Elkhorn with balanced diluted fertilizer at least every two weeks during spring and summer. You can use mixtures for ornamental foliage plants.

Disease diagnosis

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Sunlight
Platycerium needs diffused light. Keep your fern away from direct sunlight to avoid burns. The best place for your greenie would be next to an east- or north-facing window.
Soil
This beautiful fern will most enjoy a slightly acidic soil mixture. The best composition of the growing mix would be sphagnum, peat, and leafy soil in equal proportions with the addition of a small amount of bark. Don't forget to put a drainage layer at the bottom of the container!
Propagation
Elkhorn fern reproduces by offspring or spores. The easiest way to propagate your greenie is through reproduction by offspring. Simply separate the grown specimen with several roots and plant it in fresh soil.

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Temperature
Platycerium is resistant to high or low temperatures. However, keeping the plant in a moderately warm environment is best! Don't let the temperature level fall below 50°F (10°C).
Container
You can grow your fern in small hanging pots or special containers attached to the walls. This will provide your green pet with conditions similar to its natural habitat.
Fun fact
In the wild, Platycerium spends its life attached to tree trunks.

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Additional
All ferns love moisture and should be given humid conditions. In living rooms and family rooms, stand their pots on trays of damp pebbles or clay granules. Ferns also love being misted at regular intervals with tepid, soft water unless the humidity of the whole room is kept high through the use of a humidifier.
Popularity
7,428 people already have this plant 1,008 people have added this plant to their wishlists