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Staghorn Fern Information
About The Staghorn Fern
The Staghorn Fern is one of our favorite varieties of ferns thanks to its whimsical fronds that resemble antlers, hence its common name! Look very closely, and you may notice two distinct parts of the Staghorn: sporophytes (the stags) and gametophytes (the shields). Both play crucial roles in the epiphytic plant’s lifecycle.
- Each plant is unique; size and shape fluctuate by season so all measurements are shown as a range
- Small plant measures between 4-9" tall from the soil line to the top of the foliage
- Arrives in a 4" nursery grow pot nestled in your planter choice
Sizing Guide
Small
Approximately 5" in diameter, fits plants in a 4" grow pot or smaller
Medium
Approximately 7" in diameter, fits plants in a 6" grow pot or smaller
Large
Approximately 10-12" in diameter, fits plants in a 10" grow pot or smaller
Massive
Approximately 12-14" in diameter, fits plants in a 12" grow pot or smaller
Watering Requirements
Water every 1-2 weeks, allowing soil to dry out between waterings. Expect to water more often in brighter light and less often in lower light. Do not water directly into the center of your fern, but instead, water around it.
Sunlight Requirements
Thrives in medium to bright indirect light, but can tolerate low indirect light.
Humidity Requirements
Normal room humidity can work, but the Staghorn Fern can benefit from higher humidity conditions. Consider incorporating a humidifier to boost humidity levels more consistently if the air in the home is dry.
Pet-Friendly Plant?
Yes, this plant is safe for homes with pets.
What are the different types of fronds on a Staghorn Fern?
The white, dusty, felt-like fuzz covering the leaves of your Staghorn Fern is completely normal and is composed of microscopic structures called trichomes. This fuzz is a vital survival mechanism, not dust, mold, or a sign of disease!
Why is there white fuzz on my Staghorn Fern leaves, and should I wipe it off?
Since mounted Staghorn Ferns do not grow in standard pots of soil, they cannot be watered traditionally. The best method is the dunk-and-soak method, typically required weekly depending on your home's indoor humidity. Take the entire wooden mount or hanging basket and submerge the root ball base into a sink or basin of room-temperature water for 10 to 15 minutes. Let the fern drip-dry thoroughly before rehanging it. If the shield fronds begin to look shriveled or the antler leaves droop, increase your soaking frequency.
How do you water a mounted Staghorn Fern?
Staghorn Ferns are unique because they grow two distinct types of leaves, each serving a vital biological purpose. The round, flat shield fronds at the base anchor the plant, starting out green but naturally turning brown and papery. Rising above them are the long, green antler fronds, which mimic deer antlers and handle the photosynthesis. You should never remove the older brown shield fronds, as they stack up in crucial protective layers that help keep the fern healthy.
Our planters are made from the highest quality materials, and designed to complement a range of styles.
No Exterior Planter
Ceramic Planters
Grow Pot
Plastic container with drainage holes used by our greenhouse
Grant
No drainage hole; use as cache pot or add lava rocks
Hyde
Includes drainage hole & matching saucer
All of our plants ship in premium packaging for zero damage on arrival. Here’s what you can expect in your box on arrival:
Your Staghorn Fern
Fully rooted in a nursery pot with soil intact
Custom Protection System
Corner guards, soil stabilizer, and branch sleeves keep it secure
Pre-Watered & Ready
Each plant is watered 24 hours before it is shipped
Care Instructions Card
Includes expert-curated care tips to help your plant thrive far beyond the first 30 days.
Perfect For Gifting
No pricing or packing slips included with gifts! Just the plant and a note.
Additional Resources
- Video: Workshop Tutorial 1
- Video: Workshop Tutorial 2
- Video: Workshop Tutorial 3
- Video: Workshop Tutorial 4
- How To Mount a Staghorn Fern or Other Epiphyte
- Plants 101: Epiphytes and Air Plants
- How To Increase Humidity for Houseplants
- Understanding Lighting in Your Home and How It Affects Your Plants
How To Mount a Staghorn Fern or Other Epiphyte
Learn how to mount a Staghorn Fern, Bird’s Nest Fern, or your favorite epiphytic houseplant with this step-by-step guide.
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Plants 101: Epiphytes and Air Plants
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How To Increase Humidity for Houseplants
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Why Choose The Sill?
Not all Staghorn Ferns are created equal
Greenhouse Grown
Not warehouse-held. Hand-picked and cared for by our experts.
Indoor Ready
Pre-conditioned to indoor light conditions.
Hand-Selected
Inspected by experts. Only our best ship out.
30-Day Guarantee
Free replacements if not happy and healthy.