Staghorn Fern - Plant

Planting and care

Though you can find young staghorn ferns sold in pots, mature plants need to be mounted to a board or hung in a hanging basket. Why? Because, like air plants, staghorn ferns are epiphytic plants, which means that in they grow on other plants or trees in their natural growing environments.
In the tropics (and even warmer parts of the US like Florida), staghorn ferns grow to truly massive proportions, jutting dramatically out of the crooks of trees. Their roots hold them in place, and they absorb water and nutrients through their fronds.

Caring for Staghorn Fern

Use a spray-bottle that emits a fine, ambient mist, such as a brass mister. Mist the entire plant, focusing on the underside of the antler fronds and the shield fronds.

Typical uses of Staghorn Fern

Special features: Roots must never be allowed to dry out. Occasionally immerse entire root ball (not the fertile fronds) in water for several minutes and then drain.

Culinary use: Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (ratio of 1:1:1).

Ornamental use: A hanging fern makes a great ornamental adornment for any large tree or wall in the garden. For a substrate, most simply use a flat board

Medicinal use: na

References

• http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b615