Overview
Platycerium hillii is a tufted ferns in the genus Platycerium, part of the Polypodiaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Platycerium hillii grows best in partial shade, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1b. Suggested uses include indoor plant and conservatory.
About
Platycerium hillii, known as the northern elkhorn fern, is an evergreen, tufted epiphytic fern from the Polypodiaceae family. Like others in the Platycerium genus, it has a cluster of rounded or heart-shaped sterile fronds and upright or hanging fertile fronds that are often branched and grey-green in colour. This cultivar thrives in partial shade with a south, west, or east-facing aspect, preferring moist but well-drained loam soil of neutral pH. It is suited for indoor environments or conservatories, particularly in sheltered locations, and is of interest during the winter season.
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
- UK hardiness
- H1b
Plant details
Platycerium hillii size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Ferns, Houseplants
- Habit
- Tufted
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Indoor plant, conservatory
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Platycerium hillii
- Propagation
- Sow spores when ripe, detach plantlets
- Pest resistance
- Susceptible to scale insects
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Platycerium hillii?
Platycerium hillii prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Platycerium hillii need?
Platycerium hillii grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Platycerium hillii hardy in the UK?
Platycerium hillii has an RHS hardiness rating of H1b, meaning it needs subtropical warmth of 10–15°C and must be grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Platycerium hillii?
Sow spores when ripe, detach plantlets.
More in the Platycerium genus
- Platycerium bifurcatumcommon staghorn fern
- Platycerium coronariumEast Indian elk's horn fern
- Platycerium grandegiant staghorn fern
- Platycerium hillii 'Majus'
- Platycerium alcicorne (P. Willemet) Desv.elk-horned staghorn fern