Botanical Taxidermy

Article by MARÉ BRENNAN
Photograph by KELLY MOORE CLARK
Staghorn fern available from JAMES MCCREADY

Staghorn Ferns 
Platycerium bifurcatum

The antler-like fronds of staghorn ferns make each specimen irresistible to plant collectors. What other plants look so at home on a wall, inside or out? While it might not be the easiest to care for, staghorn ferns are worth the effort. Plus, having a plant that can also serve as a piece of wall art indoors or out is unique and fun. 

Staghorn ferns are native to Asia and Oceania and are ephiphytic in nature, like an airplant, meaning they grown on other plants using aerial roots to attach to their host. If you buy a staghorn, it may be potted in soil. While they can continue to live that way, their roots do well when using a moss base. They thrive in sub-tropical conditions, with high humidity and indirect, dappled sunlight. Staghorns do really well on a porch in our warm, humid climate, but need to come inside when the weather is chilly. 

Staghorns have two different types of leaves which are shield and antler fronds. The shields are usually brown and cover the roots for protection. Don’t be tempted to remove these brown, crispy leaves as they are essential or protecting the rootball and soaking up nutrients. Antler fronds are green and reach out from the base of the plant. The antler fronds can grow massive over time in an outdoor location.

Staghorns are non-toxic for people and pets, making them a safe choice if you have pets that can’t resist a nibble. 

Here are a few tips for Staghorn care:

To mount your staghorn, you can start with small wooden cutting board. Add a picture hanger to the back of the board. Next cut a circle of burlap fabric about the size of the rootball, fold it in half, then secure the edges of the half circle to the cutting board to create a pocket for your staghorn’s rootball. Add moistened spaghnum moss around the rootball, then tuck the roots and moss within the burlap pocket. If mounting, make sure that the fertile fronds are oriented upward.

Louisiana is perfect for staghorn growing! These ferns can handle our hot, muggy bayou environment. Once temps drop below 40, you’ll need to bring these babies inside. Just be sure to avoid drafty windows and blowing AC units. 

Daily misting is never a bad idea for your staghorn as they love humidity. The mountings can make them a little hard to water. Remove from the wall and place in a sink or shower. Soak the moss root ball for 10 minutes, then allow to drip dry before hanging again. You should water once a week in the summer and every 2-3 weeks in the winter. If the antler fronds turn brown at the base, you’ve overwatered. If the tips of the antler fronds turn brown you need to water more.