This epiphytic fern forms a large clump on a host with a short creeping rhizome behind a nest of mid green semi pendant fronds. The fertile fronds are pendulous and are felty-brown on the underside.

Hardiness zones 9 to 12

Platycerium bifurcatum Is naturally found from Australia to New Guinea, Indonesia and Lord Howe Island growing in tree forks or branches.

It prefers composted leaf mould that is moist in a humid environment and grows in a semi shade protected position and is frost and drought tender.

Elkhorn is a hardy and interesting fern that is grown for its foliage and habit. It is grown on trees or walls on a timber backing as a specimen or used as a feature plant on a rock (lithophyte). It is suitable for coastal regions and low-mountain regions establishing in 2 to 3 years. It is commonly planted around a water feature or used in a rainforest setting for a tropical effect. 

Platycerium (plă-tee-SER-ee-um) bifurcatum (bi-kur-KAH-rum)

‘Platycerium’: from Greek platys - broad, & cerius - waxen (refers to the fronds).

Polypodiaceae (pol-ee-PODE-ay-see-ee)