Botanical Name
Platycerium superbum
Common Name
Staghorn Fern
Description
Staghorn Fern is a magnificent epiphytic native fern renowned for its dramatic antler-like fronds and spectacular architectural form that creates stunning displays in Australian gardens. This impressive rainforest species produces broad, multi-branching fertile fronds that can grow up to 2 meters in length, emerging from distinctive nest fronds and producing masses of spores midway along the fronds during summer. The distinctive “staghorn” appearance makes it one of Australia’s most recognisable ferns. Requiring good air circulation and moderate humidity, it thrives when mounted on hardwood boards, in hanging baskets, or attached to tree trunks in warmer areas, with careful winter watering essential in cooler climates. Perfect for mounting displays, hanging installations, and areas where dramatic epiphytic ferns create memorable architectural features.
Plant Category
Ferns
Size (H x W)
Height: 1-2 meters (frond length), Spread: 1-2 meters
Platycerium superbum is native to lowland rainforests in Queensland and northern New South Wales, naturally growing as an epiphyte on trees, thriving in humid conditions with good air circulation, moderate humidity, and filtered sunlight in subtropical to tropical climates.
Cultural SIgnificance
As part of Australia’s ancient rainforest flora, this species represents the prehistoric epiphytic communities that were traditionally valued by Aboriginal peoples for their role in rainforest ecosystems and as indicators of pristine forest environments.
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