Elkhorn Fern
Platycerium bifurcatum
Platycerium Bifurcatum (Elkhorn Fern) is an extraordinary epiphytic fern native to the rainforests of eastern Australia. Naturally growing on tree trunks and rocks, it absorbs water and nutrients through its leaves and root shield. It produces two types of fronds: flat, nest-like shield fronds at the base, and arching, branched fertile fronds resembling elk antlers.
Native Origin & Climate
Temperate and subtropical rainforests of New South Wales and Queensland. Completely adapted to outdoor coastal conditions in eastern AU.
Expert Pruning Tip
Do not remove the brown, paper-like shield fronds at the base of the plant. These shields are vital for protecting the roots and absorbing moisture.
In-Situ Environment
Urban Botanics Art
Botanical Blueprint
Localized Australian Care Taxonomy
Beginner Friendly. Highly resilient and low-maintenance when grown outdoors in a shaded, sheltered spot. Very hard to kill once established.
Filtered, indirect light or dappled shade. Prefers a bright position out of direct, burning afternoon summer sun. Can tolerate some morning sun.
Low-to-moderate. Epiphytic nature means it enjoys drying out slightly. Water by thoroughly soaking the root shield once a week in summer, reducing to fortnightly in winter.
No soil. Naturally mounts onto wooden boards, tree ferns, or hangs in wire baskets lined with sphagnum moss and organic leaf litter.
Thrives in temperate and subtropical eastern Australian humidity. Tolerates light winter frosts, but needs shelter in extremely cold alpine regions.
Division of offsets (pups). Gently separate young pups arising from the base of the shield and mount them onto a fresh board in spring.
Architectural, dramatic, and wild. Antler-like fronds cascading from a mounted base. Adds a premium, organic botanical statement to walls.
Mounted on shaded outdoor fences, tree trunks in backyard gardens, or in high-humidity indoor bathrooms with bright indirect light.
Outdoor
Safe:Completely non-toxic to dogs, cats, and children. Safe to hang anywhere within reach of curious family members.
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