Overview
Platycerium bifurcatum is a tufted conservatory greenhouse in the genus Platycerium, part of the Polypodiaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 0.5-1 metres tall and 0.5-1 metres wide, reaching full size in around 10-20 years. Platycerium bifurcatum grows best in partial shade, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. It is drought resistant and low maintenance.
About
Platycerium bifurcatum, commonly known as the common staghorn fern, is an evergreen fern cultivar belonging to the Polypodiaceae family. It forms a tufted habit and typically reaches 0.5 to 1 metre in height and spread over 10 to 20 years. This fern thrives in partial shade with a south, west, or east-facing aspect and prefers a sheltered position. It grows best in moist but well-drained loam soil with a neutral pH. Platycerium bifurcatum is drought resistant and low maintenance, making it suitable for conservatory or greenhouse environments, with winter being its season of interest.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Platycerium
- Sunlight
- Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
Plant details
Platycerium bifurcatum size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Conservatory Greenhouse, Ferns
- Habit
- Tufted
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Height
- 0.5-1 metres
- Spread
- 0.5-1 metres
- Time to full height
- 10-20 years
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Platycerium bifurcatum?
Platycerium bifurcatum prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Platycerium bifurcatum need?
Platycerium bifurcatum grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How big does Platycerium bifurcatum grow?
Platycerium bifurcatum reaches a height of 0.5-1 metres and a spread of 0.5-1 metres. It takes around 10-20 years to reach full size.
More in the Platycerium genus
- Platycerium coronariumEast Indian elk's horn fern
- Platycerium grandegiant staghorn fern
- Platycerium hilliinorthern elkhorn fern
- Platycerium hillii 'Majus'
- Platycerium alcicorne (P. Willemet) Desv.elk-horned staghorn fern