Platycerium

Family Polypodiaceae. This epiphytic fern has an appearance so uncharacteristic for ferns that it stands out sharply against them. This fern, growing on pieces of bark or in hanging baskets, in appearance resembles sprawling deer antlers (hence the name).

This fern has two types of fronds: some — in the form of deer antlers, these are the fertile fronds, others — sterile (shield) fronds that serve to support the plant on branches and tree trunks. In addition, the sterile fronds act as collectors of food for the fern. Rotten leaves, moss, dead insects, etc., fall into them as into a trap. Over time all this decays and forms the soil from which the fern feeds.



Temperature: Platycerium is a warmth-loving fern; in summer it is kept at 18-25°C, in winter a minimum of 15 °C. Does not tolerate drafts.

Light: If your bathroom has a window that provides enough light, Platycerium will be a worthy decoration. Place this fern in a semi-shaded spot. In winter choose a brighter location but protected from direct sunlight.

Watering: Platycerium requires regular watering. Watering is best done by lowering the pot with the plant into a container of water — the roots should never dry out. Water for watering should be well-settled, at room temperature and not hard.

Fertilizer: From April to August, feed every two weeks with a complete fertilizer for ornamental foliage houseplants. Use half the dose indicated on the instructions.

Humidity: Platycerium requires high humidity in the room. You can occasionally mist the fronds, but under no circumstances wipe them, since the leaves of this fern are covered with very fine velvety hairs that capture moisture from the air. General humidity in the room or near the plant should also be maintained by other means — for example, place Platycerium in a hanging basket or cachepot, immediately above an open aquarium. When misting, use a very fine sprayer and do not allow moisture to remain on the leaves as droplets.

Repotting: This plant needs soil, or more precisely a substrate, consisting of coarsely fibrous peat, sphagnum moss and leaf mold. If Platycerium is not mounted on a piece of bark, it is desirable to add decaying pieces of deciduous wood collected from the forest to the substrate. It is better to use a commercial orchid potting mix; it is also well suited for growing Platycerium.

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