The Staghorn Fern
The name of this plant alone should be enough to intrigue you. It is called the Staghorn Fern because these plants look like stag horns on a mount—no taxidermy required. The bright green fronds will actually branch out to either side of the larger shield frond, and it creates an amazing art piece you can hang on your wall. How does the staghorn fern feel about being mounted, you might wonder. Well, they actually love it!
Here’s why:
These plants are also epiphytes, which means these beautiful ferns grow upright on surfaces like trees in tropical climates, so this method of hanging is actually more what they are accustomed to. Although, epiphytes grow on other surfaces they are not parasitic, they simply co-habituate. Another popular type of epiphytes right now is the air plant.
Like the air plant, the Staghorn Fern absorbs water from its fronds. It has a fairly small root body that is used primarily to attach the Staghorn Fern to its host plant. These amazing ferns are such a popular houseplant right now, and it’s no wonder, their whimsical character and uniqueness make them stand out.
Quick Facts on The Staghorn Fern
- These plants love humidity, so consider a humid location for your staghorn.
- Bonus: think about misting your staghorn ferns in-between watering—they would love it.
- They prefer bright to medium indirect light, and can burn if put in direct sunlight.
- Water thoroughly, about once a week in hotter months, and every other week in colder temperatures.
- If your staghorn is in a pot, avoid watering in the center nest-like area of the fern or it can develop too much moisture build-up there.
- If your staghorn is on a mount, submerge the fern (board and all) into water for a few minutes until it is fully wet. You can also leave it under a trickle of water in a sink for about 20 minutes. Allow the plant to dry fully before rehanging it.
- These plants are non-toxic, and can easily be hung out of reach away from children and pets (although non-toxic, we do not suggest allowing children or pets to handle or ingest).
Do you love this plant and want to attend a workshop on it? We have a workshop coming up in just a few days on Monday, September 24th, all about the Staghorn Fern and how to mount it! Tickets are $45 dollars and can be purchased over the phone by calling Retreat Interiors during business hours, or purchased in person at the shop.