Platycerium stemaria

An epiphytic staghorn fern producing two distinct frond types: rounded, undulate shield fronds with prominent reticulate venation that clasp the mount, and erect, bifurcated fertile fronds with wavy margins, strongly impressed pinnate venation on the adaxial surface, and a pale, felted abaxial surface. The interplay between the broad, clasping base and the upright, antler-like fertile fronds gives this species a bold, sculptural presence.

• Light: Bright indirect light with 40–60% shade cloth; avoid direct midday sun, which can desiccate the fertile fronds and bleach the shield fronds.
• Temperature: 65–82°F (18–28°C); thrives as a warm to intermediate grower with good air movement and stable humidity.
• Humidity: 60–80%; high humidity is essential for healthy frond development and prevents the tips of the fertile fronds from browning.
• Watering: Soak the mount or root ball thoroughly and allow it to dry out almost completely before watering again; never allow the shield fronds to remain waterlogged, as this promotes rot at the base.
• Growth Habit: Epiphytic fern that anchors itself to trees or mounts via its shield fronds, which expand outward to collect organic debris and moisture. Best displayed mounted on cork bark or a wooden plaque to showcase the natural architecture of both frond types.

Additional Notes

Mount on cork bark or tree fern fiber with a layer of sphagnum moss at the root zone; can also be grown in a coarse, well-draining epiphytic mix. Shipped bare root, well-established.