TROPICAL PLANT ENCYCLOPEDIA
Platycerium
Platycerium sp.
StaghornFamily: Polypodiaceae
Origin: Tropical areas of South America, Africa, Southeast Asia, Australia and New Guinea
USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map
Ferns in this genus are widely known as Staghorn or Elkhorn ferns due to their uniquely-shaped fronds. Platycerium sporophytes (adult plants) have tufted roots growing from a short rhizome that bears two types of fronds, basal and fertile fronds. Basal fronds are sterile, shield or kidney shaped and laminate against the tree and protect the fern's roots from damage and dessication. In some Platycerium species the top margin of these fronds forms an open crown of lobes and thereby catches falling forest litter and water. Fertile fronds bear spores on their undersurface, are dichotomous or antler shaped and jut out or hang from the rhizome.
Species and varieties:
Platycerium superbum
Similar plants:
Link to this plant:
https://toptropicals.com/catalog/uid/platycerium_sp.htm
The most laid-back member of the staghorn clan - Platycerium elephantotis, also known as the Elephant Ear Fern. If you love dramatic foliage but don't want the diva attitude, this gentle giant is for you.
The Gentle Giant of the Fern World, this rare Elephant Ear Staghorn Fern has tall shield fronds and deeply veined, round fertile fronds that look like elephant ears instead of stags horns. It thrives in partial sun to bright indirect light and should be kept evenly moist. As it matures, mount it on a wooden plaque, since as one of the largest staghorn ferns in cultivation, it can become a massive specimen! Elephant Ear Staghorn Fern is sure to impress your gardening friends.
Features huge, rounded shield fronds that resemble elephant ears - soft, wavy, and deeply textured.
Unlike its antler-shaped cousins, this species has broad, floppy fronds that hang down like giant green sails.
Epiphytic by nature - grows mounted on wood, hanging baskets, or trees, just like in the wild.
A fantastic choice for shaded patios, trees, or fern walls - it brings jungle vibes without being fussy.
Native to tropical Africa, it loves warm temps, high humidity, and indirect light.
More sculptural than spiky, elephantotis is a must-have for collectors, houseplant lovers, and fern fans who want something out of the ordinary. It's big, bold, and undeniably cool.
Fun fact: The bigger the fern, the better it gets - this species just keeps getting more majestic with age!
Recommended Fertilizer: SUNSHINE Orchidasm - Rapid Growth Booster
The Gentle Giant of the Fern World, this rare Elephant Ear Staghorn Fern has tall shield fronds and deeply veined, round fertile fronds that look like elephant ears instead of stags horns. It thrives in partial sun to bright indirect light and should be kept evenly moist. As it matures, mount it on a wooden plaque, since as one of the largest staghorn ferns in cultivation, it can become a massive specimen! Elephant Ear Staghorn Fern is sure to impress your gardening friends.
Features huge, rounded shield fronds that resemble elephant ears - soft, wavy, and deeply textured.
Unlike its antler-shaped cousins, this species has broad, floppy fronds that hang down like giant green sails.
Epiphytic by nature - grows mounted on wood, hanging baskets, or trees, just like in the wild.
A fantastic choice for shaded patios, trees, or fern walls - it brings jungle vibes without being fussy.
Native to tropical Africa, it loves warm temps, high humidity, and indirect light.
More sculptural than spiky, elephantotis is a must-have for collectors, houseplant lovers, and fern fans who want something out of the ordinary. It's big, bold, and undeniably cool.
Fun fact: The bigger the fern, the better it gets - this species just keeps getting more majestic with age!
Recommended Fertilizer: SUNSHINE Orchidasm - Rapid Growth Booster
Grown in
4" or larger pot
In stock
$49.95