Plant Care Guides / Indoor
The staghorn fern is a striking, unusual plant named for its antler-shaped fronds. In the wild it grows on trees rather than in soil, which is why it is often mounted on a board and hung on a wall like living art. It looks exotic and demanding, but once you understand how it grows it is surprisingly easy.
A staghorn has two kinds of fronds. The flat, round shield fronds at the base protect the roots and turn brown over time, which is normal, so leave them in place. The antler-like fronds are the ones that grow upward and outward. It is non-toxic, so it is safe around pets and children.
Bright, indirect light suits it best. It naturally grows under a tree canopy, so it likes plenty of light without harsh direct sun, which scorches the fronds.
How you water depends on how it is grown. A mounted staghorn is best soaked: dunk the root ball in water for a few minutes, then let it drain fully, roughly once a week in summer and less in winter. Potted plants are watered when the mix is nearly dry. It loves humidity, so our coastal air suits it well.
Feed occasionally through the growing season with a weak, balanced liquid fertiliser, either in the soak water or watered onto the root ball.
Mounted plants rarely need remounting. If potted, use a very free-draining, bark-rich mix. Either way, never let the roots sit wet.
Ask about availability. We keep a changing range of indoor plants, staghorn ferns included. WhatsApp us to see what is in store, or pop in and we will help you choose.
