The Platycerium, also known as staghorn fern, is one of the plants that is not just another houseplant, but a living work of art. With its dramatic, antler-shaped leaves and striking growth form, this plant turns into a real eye-catcher, especially when you hang it the right way. Not for nothing are species such as Platycerium bifurcatum, Platycerium grande, Platycerium ridleyi and the spectacular Platycerium veitchii Lemoinei' are much sought after by tropical plant lovers. We would like to tell you more about why this fern is so popular, how to hang it and how to keep it healthy and happy.
Green art on the wall
Platyceriums grow in nature as epiphytes. That is, they attach themselves to tree trunks without extracting nutrients from them. This makes them ideal for attaching vertically or on something in the home. On wooden disks, tree bark or even an open frame on the wall, the Platycerium looks great. This modern, botanical style reminds us of a living painting.
Popular species such as the Platycerium bifurcatum with its classic, gray-green staghorn-shaped leaves are relatively easy to care for and perfect for beginners. In contrast, the Platycerium veitchii 'Lemoinei' is actually popular due to its unique color and texture. For the true enthusiast and collector, there is the Platycerium ridleyi with graceful antler-shaped leaves or the Platycerium grande with impressive leaves that can grow up to a meter long.
So hang a Platycerium at
A Platycerium hanging doesn't have to be complicated, but there are a few things to consider.
- Choose a sturdy base. A wooden board or a piece of tree bark can provide a sturdy base that can ensure that your Platycerium won't get the frame "broken" so easily.
- Use moss as a substrate around the roots. Using moss keeps the roots from drying out too quickly and allows the deer horn to develop the roots better.
- Secure the plant with fishing line, nylon thread or a staple with protective fabric. This way, the plant will be attached but not damaged.
- Hang the plant in a place with bright, indirect light. Preferably in front of a north or east-facing window so that the bright afternoon sun cannot cause damage or dry out.
You can also acclimate young plants in a hanging pot before mounting them. But Platyceriums do best when grown against a wall frame.
Simple care
Although Platyceriums look exotic, the are surprisingly easy to care for if you mimic their natural environment.
Water
Give the Platycerium preferably water by thoroughly wetting the substrate or root ball. Then let it dry almost completely again. In summer, watering once a week on average will be sufficient in a living room. In winter, this may be less.
Humidity
Most Platyceriums adapt reasonably well to an indoor climate in the house, but some species still prefer the natural high humidity they are used to in nature. So we recommend that you still mist occasionally and put a humidifier nearby, for example.
Nutrition
Use a highly diluted epiphyte food once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). This will strengthen the plant and give the leaves a nicer shape and color.
Cleaning
Periodically wipe dust from the leaves with a dry brush. Do not use water or cloth, as the leaf structure of many Platyceriums with hairs is fragile.
Note that each species has slightly different care preferences. For example, the Platycerium veitchii actually tolerates more sun and drought than other species, making it perfect for a brighter spot in the house.
A statement for plant lovers
With a Platycerium in your home, you make a stylish and natural statement. Whether you choose a subtle bifurcatum or a dramatic Platycerium grande, you are bringing a piece of tropical rainforest into your home.
Not for nothing do we notice an increasing interest among tropical houseplant enthusiasts in these unique plants. They combine aesthetics and botanical value in one. For anyone who wants something different from the standard houseplant, the staghorn fern is a wonderful alternative.
Want to learn more about Platyceriums or what varieties are currently available? View our current offer on our website and get inspired by the world of unique tropical ferns!
