Staghorn and Elkhorn ferns are two of the most dramatic ferns, they look tropical, however are actually easy to grow in a range of climates.
Grown for the fascinating foliage Elkhorn and Staghorn Ferns are shade lovers and grow well mounted onto trees, or backing boards. They do require moisture although if you are growing them in cooler climates you will need to keep them a little out of the weather in winter. Neither species likes the combination of cold and wet.
Platycerium superbum or Staghorn Ferns are native to the rainforests of NSW and QLD. The Elkhorn Fern or Platycerium bifurcatum is native to New Guinea and has smaller fronds. Licensed suppliers offer a range of both small and mature specimens for sale online.
The difference between Elkhorn and Staghorn Ferns
The Staghorns are the larger of the two and tend to be solitary plants. Elkhorns are easier to grow, they are more clump forming. Both capture nutrients and moisture through the foliage.
Basic Growing Conditions.
Often grown tied to trees, in areas with hot dry summers they are better where they will receive some moisture. You can use a shade house, or simply be diligent with the watering regime.
Staghorns Ferns and Elkhorn Ferns are epiphytic ferns that are usually mounted onto timber such as Tree Fern, Marine Ply, Jarrah or a synthetic backing.
Remember that these are epiphytic plants and do not develop large root systems. Best grown in light shade and kept moist, but not wet.
- Frost free position.
- Dappled shade year round.
- Little or no fertiliser is required, these plants grow on the detritus collected from the trees they grow beneath.
- You can use a soluble fertiliser once or twice a year if you wish. A liquid seaweed fertiliser is usually sufficient.
Care and remounting intstructions
Elkhorn and Staghorn Ferns are available for sale from the following suppliers
507 Belgrave-Gembook Rd, Cockato, Victoria, 3781
Ferns and Tree Ferns, Tasmanian Tree Ferns. Ferns and Bromeliads on Tree Fern Backing Boards, Bromeliads, Kangaroo Paw, Sphagnum Moss, Hypoestes Phyllostachya, Phalaenopsis.
www.ferngardens.com.au
1052 Whittlesea-Kinglake Road Kinglake West 3757
Offering a specialist variety of Australian native Ferns plus Dendrobium/Dockrillia & Sarcochilus species & hybrids in pots, loose, or mounted. Species Cymbidium sauve and maddidum.
www.ferns.com.au
862 Midland Highway Mount Rowan Vic 3352
We offer over 245 varieties of Fuchsia, tubestock, pots, baskets and standards. Mail order specialists. Open 7 days by appointment.
www.brenlissaonlinenursery.com.au
STAGOSAURUS phone: 02 6684 9362
Address: 259 Repentance Creek Road, Goonengerry NSW 2482
Licensed supplier of staghorn ferns in the Northern Rivers from pups to large plants.