Platycerium bifurcatum – Elkhorn Fern (F)

Description

Platycerium bifurcatum – Elkhorn Fern
Genus: Platycerium
Family: Polypodiaceae
1 Scoop – 500+ Spores/Seeds (adjustable via the dropdown menu)

💮 Description:
Platycerium bifurcatum, commonly known as the Elkhorn Fern, is a unique and striking fern native to tropical and subtropical regions of Australia, Southeast Asia, and parts of Africa. This fern is characterised by its large, deeply lobed fronds that resemble the antlers of a stag, hence its common name. It is an epiphytic fern, often found growing on trees in the wild. This fern is well-suited to hanging baskets, mounted on wood, or as a feature plant in tropical gardens.

🌳 Key Features:

• Height: Grows up to 1 meter in diameter
• Fronds: Features two types of fronds – fertile, antler-like fronds and sterile fronds that form a shield-like base
• Soil Preference: Prefers well-draining, organic-rich medium such as sphagnum moss, bark, or orchid mix
• Light Requirements: Thrives in bright, indirect light; can tolerate low light but grows best with good light
• Hardiness: Best suited for tropical and subtropical climates, can tolerate brief cool temperatures but not frost

☀️ Climate Suitability:

• Native Habitat: Found in tropical forests and woodlands, often as an epiphyte on tree trunks
• Temperature Tolerance: Prefers warm, humid conditions; tolerates temperatures from 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F)
• Moisture Needs: Requires consistent moisture but must be planted in well-draining, airy soil to prevent waterlogging

🌱 Growing Conditions:

• Position: Ideal for hanging baskets, tree mounts, or shaded garden areas
• Soil: Well-draining, organic-rich soil like sphagnum moss, orchid mix, or bark-based compost
• Watering: Water thoroughly but allow the growing medium to dry out slightly between waterings; keep humidity high
• Humidity: Thrives in high humidity, so regular misting is beneficial, especially indoors

🌱 Propagation Instructions:

1. Sowing Time:
   Best sown in warm, humid conditions during spring or early summer.
2. Sowing Method:
   Lightly sprinkle spores on the surface of a moist, fine seed-raising mix. Do not cover the spores, as they need light to germinate.
3. Moisture & Humidity:
   Keep the growing medium moist but not waterlogged, and maintain high humidity (60-80%) to encourage spore development.
4. Light Requirements:
   Provide indirect or filtered light for optimal germination. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can dry out the spores and hinder germination.
5. Germination Timeframe:
   Germination can take several weeks to a few months. The first signs of growth are typically the appearance of small green gametophytes, which develop into the fern’s characteristic fronds.
6. Transplanting:
   Once the gametophytes develop into small fronds, they can be transplanted into a suitable growing medium. Allow them to establish in a humid environment before moving to their permanent location.

⚠️ Additional Notes:

• Platycerium bifurcatum is commonly mounted on tree bark, coconut husk or placed in hanging baskets to mimic its natural growth habit as an epiphyte.
• This fern is an excellent choice for tropical and subtropical gardens, as well as for interior decor in high-humidity environments.
• Protect young plants from direct sun and ensure adequate airflow to prevent rot.

🌱 Visit Our Store: 

• Explore more seeds by clicking on “Plant Seed Shop” at the top 
• Add items to your cart for a single checkout experience
• Bulk seed is available – please email us for wholesale orders
• Seeds are packed in sealed, labelled packets for freshness

📮Shipping Information

• Australia Post with Tracking: Within Australia (excludes Tasmania and remote Western Australia).
• Spend more and save: Free shipping – minimum spend of $30. 

🏡  About ABCeeds
We are a trusted, family-owned and operated seed supplier based on the Far North Coast of NSW, Australia. Our hand-picked, organic, and unsprayed seeds are carefully harvested, cleaned, and tested to ensure fresh, high-quality seeds for gardeners, nurseries, and growers across Australia and internationally.

🌱 Seed Information
While we provide recommended propagation guidelines, germination success depends on factors such as temperature, moisture, and growing conditions. We encourage customers to refine their own methods for the best results. Once seeds leave our premises, their performance is beyond our control, but we’re always here to assist with any concerns.

🙏 Thank You!
We appreciate your support and understanding of seed variability. If you have any questions or need advice, please contact us—we’re happy to help! 😊

Backup Information: 

• Source: Company-owned data and seed descriptions.