Staghorn Fern Platycerium bifurcatum
At a glance
- Light
- Bright indirect
- 5000–20000 lux
- Water
- Every 7–14 days
- Mounting medium dries between waterings
- Humidity
- 50–80%
- Temperature
- 13–30°C
- Ideal 18–27°C
- Soil pH
- —
- fast-draining mount
- Mature size
- 90 cm tall
- 90 cm wide
- Native to
- Australia, Southeast Asia, Pacific Islands
- Growth
- Slow
- Rosette
Watering calculator
Estimate how often to water your Staghorn Fern based on pot size, light, and season.
Always check the top 2 cm of soil before watering. Calculator output is an estimate, not a schedule.
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Compare with similar plants
| Trait | Staghorn Fern Platycerium bifurcatum | Boston Fern Nephrolepis exaltata | Bird's Nest Fern Asplenium nidus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light | Bright indirect | Medium indirect | Medium indirect |
| Water | 7–14 days | 3–5 days | 5–8 days |
| Pet safe | Pet-safe | Pet-safe | Pet-safe |
| Difficulty | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate |
| Mature size | 90 cm | 90 cm | 60 cm |
Light requirements in detail
Staghorn Fern prefers bright indirect (5000–20000 lux) . Bright filtered light. Tolerates some morning sun. Deep shade slows growth and fades fronds.
A spot 1–2 meters from a bright east or south-facing window usually fits this range. Direct afternoon sun through unfiltered glass can scorch leaves; sheer curtains help diffuse it.
Watering in detail
Water Staghorn Fern every 7– 14 days during the growing season, allowing Mounting medium dries between waterings to dry between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter when growth slows.
Consistent moisture matters here — long dry spells will show up as crispy leaf edges.
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Frequently asked questions about Staghorn Fern
How often should I water Staghorn Fern?
Water Staghorn Fern every 7–14 days during the growing season, allowing Mounting medium dries between waterings to dry between waterings. Reduce frequency by 30–50% in winter.
What kind of light does Staghorn Fern need?
Staghorn Fern prefers bright indirect (5000–20000 lux). Bright filtered light. Tolerates some morning sun. Deep shade slows growth and fades fronds.
Is Staghorn Fern toxic to cats?
Staghorn Fern is non-toxic to cats according to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Mild stomach upset is still possible if a cat chews the leaves, but it will not cause poisoning.
Is Staghorn Fern toxic to dogs?
Staghorn Fern is non-toxic to dogs according to the ASPCA. Mild stomach upset is still possible if a dog chews the leaves.
How big does Staghorn Fern grow?
Staghorn Fern reaches about 90 cm tall and 90 cm wide at maturity. Growth rate is slow.