Platycerium bifurcatum – Elkhorn Fern
The elkhorn fern, or Platycerium bifurcatum, is an epiphytic fern with a distinctive and decorative form of growth. The fern grows from a collection of plantlets, which attach to the host tree. Each of these smaller plants has a central nest frond, and this central nest sends out long antler shaped fronds. The plant can become quite large as it grows new plantlets. Elkhorns are native to coastal Queensland and NSW.
Elkhorn ferns need a shady spot and like to be kept moist and are not frost hardy.
Read more about Native Ferns, Palms and Cycads
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- Platycerium bifercatum – elkhorn fern
| Family: | Polypodiaceae |
| Scientific Name: | Platycerium bifurcatum |
| Common Name: | Elkhorn Fern |
| Plant Type: | Fern |
| Height: | 1 ~ 2 metre |
| Width: | 1 ~ 2 metre |
| Ph Level: | Acid, Neutral |
| Plant Environment: | Courtyard |
| Climate Zone: | Sub-tropical, Warm temperate, Cool temperate |
| Light: | Light shade, Half shade, Heavy shade |
| Growth Habit: | Evergreen, Weeping |
| Lifespan: | Perennial |
| Soil Moisture: | Moist moderate drainage, Needs regular watering |
| Frost Tolerance: | Not frost tolerant |
| Plant Usage: | Feature plant, Attractive foliage, Wow factor |
WHERE TO GET YOUR PLANT
Once you have found the plant that you want, the next step is to find where to get it. Nurseries stock a good range of plants, but due to space and supplies, they may or may not have the wanted plant in stock. If they don’t, they may be able to order it in for you. Specialist nurseries are also able to give great advice, and if they don’t have the plant you want, they can often suggest alternative plants that will be just as good for you. Below is a list of our favourite specialist nurseries. Click on the links for their details-
The Wildflower Place Erina – NSW
Sydney Wildflower Nursery – NSW
Newcastle Wildflower Nursery – NSW
Geelong Native Plants – Victoria
Wimmera Native Nursery – Victoria
Manuka Native Nursery – South Australia
MAIL ORDER NURSERIES –
Sydney Wildflower Nursery – mail order
Angus recommends Bush Tucker fertiliser for native plants.