Staghorn ferns are stunning epiphytic ferns that can add an elegant, tropical feel to your outdoor space. Their antler-shaped fronds make a striking statement whether mounted on a wall, hung in a tree, or placed in a planter on a porch or patio.
While staghorn ferns are not cold hardy and require some specialized care compared to other plants, they are not as difficult to grow outdoors as some people believe. Follow this complete guide for everything you need to know about successfully growing happy, healthy staghorn ferns in your garden.
👀 Overview
Staghorn ferns are members of the genus Platycerium, which includes around 18 different species. They are native to tropical and subtropical regions of South America, Africa, Asia, and Australia.
The two most popular outdoor species are:
- Platycerium bifurcatum (common staghorn fern) – Native to Australia and the most common. Medium sized around 1-3 feet wide. Has classic antler-shaped fronds.
- Platycerium grande (giant staghorn/elkhorn fern) – Native to Australia and southeast Asia. Larger than common staghorn, getting up to 5 feet wide.
Staghorn ferns are epiphytic plants, meaning they grow on other plants or structures like the trunks and branches of trees rather than rooting in soil. They have two main types of fronds:
- Basal fronds – Large, rounded, flat fronds that arise from the base. They are green when new but turn brown and papery as they age. Basal fronds protect the roots and collect water and nutrients.
- Antler fronds – The upright, bifurcated fronds that give the fern its name. Spores form on the undersides of these fronds, appearing as brown fuzz. The tips will form plantlets that fall and spread the fern.
One of the unique things about staghorn ferns is that they attach to surfaces with thin, fuzzy roots and do not need soil. This makes them perfectly adapted to growing on trees and walls. Their roots cling to rough bark or cracks in wood while their fronds absorb moisture and nutrients from the air.
| 📖 Common name | Staghorn Fern, Elkhorn fern |
| 🔬 Botanical name | Platycerium bifurcatum |
| 🫴 Care Difficulty level | Moderate |
| ☠️ Toxicity | Non-toxic to pets and humans |
| 💨 Air-purifying Qualities | Moderate |
| 🌱 Soil Type and pH | Epiphytic mix, slightly acidic to neutral |
| ☀️ Sun Exposure | Bright, indirect light |
| 🍪 Edibility | Not edible |
| 🌴 Plant type | Epiphytic Fern |
| 🍃 Foliage Type | Evergreen |
| 🌿 Color of leaves | Green |
| 🌸 Flower color | N/A |
| 💥 Bloom time | Rarely blooms |
| 🚀 Growth Speed | Moderate |
| 📏 Mature Size | Up to 3 feet |
| 🔄 Life Cycle | Perennial |
| 🌍 Hardiness zones | 9-12 |
| 🗺️ Native area | Australia, New Guinea, and Indonesia |
💚 Staghorn Fern Care
While staghorn ferns are adapted to tropical climates, they can thrive outdoors in temperate regions as long as their basic needs are met. Here is how to provide the proper care for your outdoor staghorn ferns.
☀️ Light ☀️
Staghorn ferns require bright, filtered light. When grown in their native tropical habitats they often grow high up in the canopies of trees where they receive dappled sun.
Outdoors, look for a spot that receives bright light but avoid direct hot sun which can scorch the fronds. Morning sun or light afternoon shade is ideal. If mounting a staghorn on a wall, aim for an east or west facing exposure. A north facing wall may not provide enough light.
Insufficient light will cause the fronds of the staghorn fern to turn yellow or light green and the plant will fail to thrive. Move to a brighter location or consider supplementing with grow lights if needed.
💧 Water
Water is critical for staghorn ferns since they absorb moisture and nutrients through their fronds. Their roots serve mainly to cling to surfaces rather than taking up water.
Aim to keep the fronds and base of a staghorn fern evenly moist but not wet. Let the plant dry out slightly between waterings but don’t allow it to wilt severely. Fronds that curl up are a sign the fern needs water.
- Mounted staghorn ferns should be watered 2-3 times per week in hot weather, daily in very dry climates. Mist the fronds then soak the root mass thoroughly.
- Ferns in hanging baskets need watering about 2-4 times per week. Check daily and water when the top inch of soil/moss feels dry.
- Increase frequency during summer and reduce in winter but do not allow prolonged drying.
- If mounted, soak the entire plant upside down in a tub of water for 30 minutes every 2-4 weeks to ensure roots are saturated.
- Avoid wetting the crown where new fronds emerge to prevent rot.
- Decrease watering frequency if fronds blacken (sign of overwatering).
🪴 Soil
Staghorn ferns are epiphytes so they do not require regular soil or planting mix and will rot if overwatered in dense potting mix. However, they still need an appropriate medium for their roots to cling to.
Here are suitable options:
- Sphagnum moss – Wrap moss around the roots and base fronds when mounting on wood or tree fern plaques. Keep the moss damp but not saturated.
- Orchid bark mix – Chunky, fast draining. Use in hanging baskets.
- Tree fern fiber – Sold for mounting orchids and bromeliads. Holds some moisture but drains well.
- Cork, driftwood, rocks – Provides texture for claws to cling to. Wrap base in moss.
- Spaces or pockets in tree bark – Roots will dig into existing holes and cracks. Stuff with moss.
If mounting a small fern, a handful of moss or other media is sufficient. Larger root balls will need more. Mist the roots while planting but avoid compacting the media too densely. Allow everything to dry before watering again.
🍼 Fertilizer
Since they obtain nutrients from the air and debris that collects around their root zones, staghorn ferns do not need heavy feeding. But providing some supplemental fertilizer will benefit the plant and promote lush growth.
- Use a balanced orchid fertilizer or bromeliad/air plant formula monthly in spring and summer at half strength.
- Good options are high quality liquid fertilizers or timed release pellets.
- Place dried banana peels around the root zone for an extra boost of potassium.
- Mist plant after fertilizing to wash traces off the fronds and prevent burning.
- Reduce fertilizer applications in fall and winter during dormancy.
Take care not to over-fertilize staghorn ferns as this can damage their sensitive fronds. And be sure to provide adequate water and humidity along with fertilizer.
🌡️ Temperature
Staghorn ferns like warm temperatures between 60-80°F (15-26°C) and cannot tolerate freezing cold. Provide the following temperatures:
- Above 50°F (10°C) at all times
- Ideally 60-80°F (15-26°C) for active growth
- Can tolerate highs up to 85-90°F (29-32°C)
- Keep above 40°F (4°C) in winter
Options for dealing with low temps:
- Move pots indoors if forecast dips below 50°F (10°C)
- Cover outdoors ferns with fabric/blankets to protect from frost
- Provide heat with lights or heating pads if mounted
- Insulate garage or covered areas to maintain 40°F (4°C) minimum
If kept outdoors year-round, staghorn ferns will become dormant in winter and put out new growth when warmer weather returns.
💦 Humidity
Humidity is incredibly important for staghorn fern health since their fronds absorb water from humid air. Ideal humidity levels are 60-80%.
In tropical climates the natural humidity is perfect for staghorn ferns. But in drier environments, take steps to increase the humidity around your ferns:
- Mist ferns frequently, even several times a day in dry climates. Focus on the undersides of the fronds.
- Use a humidifier nearby to maintain ambient moisture.
- Avoid positioning near heaters or AC vents which dry the air.
- Grow in naturally humid spots like near ponds or in shade under trees.
- Mount or hang ferns in bathroom for best humidity if bringing indoors in winter.
Also watch for the humidity level if bringing staghorn ferns indoors. Lower household humidity will require more diligent watering and misting. Brown leaf tips signal the plant needs more moisture.
Staghorn Fern Care By Season
Caring for outdoor staghorn ferns involves adjusting your practices depending on the weather and seasons. Here is an overview of seasonal staghorn fern care:
Spring:
- Move ferns outdoors after danger of frost has passed.
- Acclimate to sun over a week or two if houseplants.
- Resume fertilizing every 2-4 weeks to encourage new growth.
- Check moisture levels frequently as weather warms.
- Mist leaves daily and water root zone when partially dry.
Summer:
- Provide bright, filtered light and avoid hot direct sun.
- Water 2-4 times a week to keep fronds hydrated in heat.
- Mist leaves several times a day if dry.
- Watch for signs of sunburn on fronds. Move to shade if needed.
- Consider moving plants to a shadier location in peak summer.
- Fertilize monthly.
Fall:
- Reduce watering frequency as temperatures cool.
- Discontinue fertilizing.
- Make sure ferns are well watered before first frost.
- Move ferns indoors if temps drop close to 40°F (4°C).
- Or cover/insulate outdoor mounts if moving not possible.
Winter:
- Reduce watering to every 2-4 weeks if kept outdoors. Do not allow roots to dry out.
- Check for freeze damage on fronds. Trim if needed.
- Keep indoors above 50°F (10°C). Water sparingly, just enough to prevent shriveling.
- Do not fertilize while dormant.
- Allow fern to rest until spring growth resumes.
Adjusting your care with the changing seasons will keep your staghorn ferns happy in any climate. With a bit of extra protection, they can remain outdoors year-round even where winters are cold.
📃 Types of Staghorn Fern
🪴 Potting and Repotting Staghorn Fern
Staghorn ferns will eventually outgrow their space, appearing rootbound with fronds creeping over the edges. Repot as follows:
- Select a larger basket or wood plaque, at least 4-6 inches wider than the current size.
- Carefully remove from old mount. Loosen up matted roots if possible.
- Position in center of new mount and secure by tying on with fishing line or wire.
- Fill around edges with fresh sphagnum moss or orchid media.
- Resume normal care. Avoid disturbing the roots again until absolutely necessary.
With a larger space the fern will produce new growth again. Just be cautious in handling the roots when repotting.
✂️ Pruning Staghorn Fern
🌱 How to Propagate Staghorn Fern
Staghorn ferns can quickly grow too large for their original container or mount. And propagating new ferns from an existing plant is simple. Here is how to repot and propagate your staghorn ferns.
Propagating Staghorn Ferns
Staghorn ferns are easily propagated by:
- Offsets – Small plantlets form at the base of mature ferns. When they reach a few inches tall, carefully detach with a sterilized knife and pot up or mount individually.
- Spores – The brown fuzzy material on the back of mature fronds contains fern spores. Tap them over another plant, or remove and sprinkle over media to allow new plants to grow.
- Divisions – Large root masses can be divided using a sterilized knife or handsaw. Cut apart, ensuring at least three fronds per division.
🐛 Common Pests
🩺 Common Problems With Staghorn Fern
When provided with proper growing conditions, staghorn ferns are not susceptible to many issues. But at times you may encounter:
Yellow or browning fronds – This can be caused by too much or too little water, overexposure to sun, or cool temperatures. Adjust watering practices and move to a shadier spot if needed.
Black spots on leaves – A fungal disease called stag-head fungus sometimes occurs. Improve air circulation and water in a way that keeps fronds dry. Remove infected parts of leaves.
Failure to thrive – Poor growth can be due to insufficient light, humidity, or nutrients. Assess care practices and make adjustments as needed. Relocate or use grow lights if light is inadequate.
Insect pests – Mealybugs, aphids and scale may sometimes infest plants. Use a gentle insecticidal soap spray and keep ferns vigilant for future invasions.
Root or rhizome rot – Overwatering and overly dense media can cause rot. Allow plants to dry more before watering and repot in better draining orchid mix if needed. Remove dead roots.
With good care, your outdoor staghorn ferns should grow happily for many years. But taking quick action if problems arise will get your plants healthy again.
🖼️ Display Ideas
Staghorn ferns are gorgeous just on their own, but also lend themselves beautifully to creative displays:
- Create a “living wall” of multiple staghorn ferns mounted on contrasting wood slices on an exterior wall.
- Grow a “ceiling garden” by mounting ferns on pieces of driftwood hung from porch or patio beams.
- Pair with other epiphytes like orchids and bromeliads on a multi-tiered plant stand in a shady corner.
- Surround a steel ring wreath form with mounted ferns to create a stunning living wreath.
- Place several small staghorn ferns in glazed ceramic planters for an ornamental touch.
- Use staghorn ferns as a unique groundcover around stepping stones or at the base of a tree.
With their adaptive growing habits, lush tropical look, and graceful arching fronds, staghorn ferns allow for unlimited creative possibilities to enhance your outdoor space.
Mounting and Displaying Staghorn Ferns Outdoors
One of the most appealing ways to grow staghorn ferns is mounted on wood or tree fern panels. This mimics how they grow in nature and allows their long fronds to cascade gracefully. But you can also grow them in hanging baskets or set inside decorative pots and urns.
Mounting on Wood
To mount a staghorn fern on wood:
- Select a non-treated, weather resistant board, such as redwood, cypress, or teak. Other good choices are driftwood, cork, and tree fern boards.
- Choose a board large enough to allow some future growth. About 18×24 inches for a medium fern.
- optional: add a decorative hanger or eye hooks for hanging
- Wrap the root mass with damp sphagnum moss or orchid mix.
- Press the fern and roots against the board. Affix with orchid clips, staples, wire or fishing line.
- optional: wrap with burlap or other material to hide attachment.
- Position horizontally or vertically depending on design.
- Hang in filtered light with a bit of air circulation.
- Check moisture level often and water root mass as needed.
Hanging Baskets
For a lighter and airier look compared to a wood plaque, use a hanging basket:
- Select an orchid basket or wire basket with plenty of openings for airflow.
- Line the basket with sphagnum moss or orchid bark, only lightly packed.
- Remove fern from pot and position in basket. The root mass should not be buried too deeply.
- Allow roots to cling to the sides of the lining. Add more media if needed.
- Hang in a warm, humid spot with bright filtered sunlight.
- Maintain consistent moisture in the lining material. Water when dry 1-2” deep.
Staghorn ferns will readily form new plantlets in hanging baskets that can be clipped off and propagated when they reach a few inches tall.
Adding to Planters
For a less traditional look, incorporate a staghorn fern into an outdoor planter or urn display:
- Choose a heavy container that will not blow over in wind. Anchor with weights if needed.
- Make sure the planter has drainage holes to prevent root rot.
- Fill the bottom 1/3 of the planter with lightweight orchid mix or bark.
- Nestle the staghorn in the planter, spreading its roots over the media. The rhizome and lower fronds can rest against the edge if desired.
- Fill around the sides with more orchid mix to cover exposed roots and hold the fern in position. Do not pack tightly.
- Allow the shield fronds to drape over the outside of the planter.
- Water when the media dries down 1-2” to maintain even moisture.
Grouping staghorn ferns with bromeliads, orchids, and other tropical looking plants creates a lush, cohesive look. Just be sure their care needs are similar.
👍 Pro Tips for Healthy Growth
- Acclimate new ferns slowly before permanently moving them outside. Start by placing them in a shady spot for a few hours a day, gradually increasing the time over 7-10 days. This helps avoid transplant shock.
- Water early in the day so the fronds have time to dry out before night falls. Wet foliage at night encourages fungal diseases.
- Flush mounted ferns occasionally by spraying with a strong stream of water. This helps wash away any accumulated salts, dust or debris.
- Mist ferns in the morning rather than at night when the air is cooler. Evening misting raises humidity at a time when evaporation slows, promoting fungal growth.
- Remove dead or damaged fronds promptly with sterile pruners. This maintains an attractive appearance and prevents disease spread.
- Rotate mounted ferns or adjust position periodically to ensure all sides get adequate sun exposure. Prevent one-sided growth reaching for the light.
- Dust staghorn fern fronds periodically with a soft damp cloth to remove particulate buildup. This allows the fronds to absorb light and airborne nutrition better.
- Protect ferns from strong winds if possible. Gusts can tatter the broad fronds. Site them in sheltered spots or use removable screening.
- Check new plants closely for pests before installing. Quarantine gifts and nursery plants for a few weeks. Catch infestations early.
- Allow the entire root mass to dry out between waterings to prevent rot. Dense media holds moisture longer than wooden mounts.
- Consider grow lights if your outdoor location lacks adequate natural brightness for ferns. Full spectrum LED plant bulbs work well.
- Mount wood boards vertically so rain and debris can easily sheet off rather than pooling on horizontal surfaces. Improves drainage.
- After fertilizing, flush mounts well to prevent buildup of nutrients on the rhizome and crown. Staghorn roots are sensitive.
- Propagate new plants often as older specimens may lose vigor. Replace aging ferns in displays with fresh offsets or spore-grown plants.
❓ FAQ
Staghorn fern cold tolerance varies slightly by species. But none are hardy below freezing. Temperatures of 50-60°F (10-15°C) are ideal. They can take brief light frosts with some protection but cold below 40°F (4°C) will damage the foliage.
Yes. Removing dead or damaged portions of leaves improves the plant’s appearance and prevents disease. But don’t cut off healthy brown shield fronds at the base.
Wait to repot until the fern is extremely rootbound, with fronds creeping over the edges of the container. This may take 2-4 years. Repotting too frequently can damage the fragile roots.
Sphagnum moss wrapped around the root mass secures the fern well and provides moisture retention. Coconut coir or tree fern fiber also work. Staples, orchid clips, wire, or fishing line will temporarily attach the fern until the roots affix themselves.
Staghorn ferns do best in bright shade or dappled sun. Direct hot sunlight will scorch their moist fronds. Provide at least partial shade, especially in warmer climates. Morning sun is tolerated better than afternoon.
In dry climates, misting the leaves several times a day and placing pebble trays beneath the plants will help. Grouping ferns together improves humidity. Growing near bodies of water or under larger trees also helps trap moisture.
📝 Final Thoughts
Staghorn ferns are gorgeous and surprisingly adaptable plants that can add striking architecture and texture to gardens, patios, and porches. While they require some specialized care compared to other plants, they reward you with their lush tropical appeal.
By providing the proper bright, humid environment, drainage, temperatures and nutrition, your outdoor staghorn ferns can thrive for decades. Their graceful forms and cascading fronds will add a distinctive touch wherever you grow them.
With the tips in this complete growing guide, you can successfully raise healthy staghorn ferns in climates cold and warm. These fascinating living sculptures will transform your outdoor space into an urban jungle paradise.
📚 Further Reading
📗 Learn more about Staghorn Fern
📚 References
📘 Staghorn Fern Image – U.S. Geological Survey.
📘 PMC Article 8525959 – National Center for Biotechnology Information.
📘 Plant Profile for PLSU13 – USDA Plants Database.
📘 Species Details ID 11697 – Queensland Government’s Species Search.
