Platycerium alcicorne - Staghorn fern

Platycerium alcicorne is an astonishing houseplant: also known as Staghorn Fern, it develops elongated, arched, and forked fertile fronds. It thrives when mounted on a support, such as a wall. It prefers a bright location but without direct sunlight and temperatures between 15 and 25°C, but not below 13°C.

Platycerium alcicorne belongs to the Polypodiaceae family, and the Platycerium genus comprises 17 species. This is a compact and upright epiphytic fern, native to Africa and the islands of the Indian Ocean. This species is rarer in cultivation than P. bifurcatum, whose fronds are more downy. In the wild, it attaches itself to trees and absorbs moisture from the air. Its two distinct types of fronds—the rounded, shield-like sterile fronds that form a base and the elongated, staghorn-shaped fertile fronds—make it highly attractive. They are a deep green, downy on the underside and glossy on top. Like all ferns, it reproduces via spores and does not produce flowers. In a pot, its fronds reach 50 cm in length and 80 cm in width, with moderate growth. The plant is non-toxic to animals and humans.

Platycerium alcicorne makes a striking display. Mounted on wood, it hangs on the wall like a beautiful living artwork. Place it in a bright living room, bedroom, or even a sheltered conservatory. To enhance its style, pair it with tillandsias—other remarkable epiphytes—or accompany it with any type of houseplant, such as aroids, which appreciate good ambient humidity.