The Staghorn Fern is unique and funky looking plant. The name given to it is fitting because of its odd appearing leaves, which are also known as fronds. The Staghorn is native to the tropical areas of Australia and New Guinea. On trees where they grow, they can get as large as 4 feet in diameter. This plant is also found in the tropical climate of Florida and Hawaii.

You can find this plant in select nurseries across the south, southwest, and other warm climate areas. If you want to grow this plant to see it flower you are going to be disappointed. This fern does not flower at anytime throughout its life. Instead it reproduces by shedding spores, which are transported from the breeze to other trees where they attach themselves and begin to grow.

To get the most out of the Staghorn fern keep it out direct sunlight. That is why you often see them thriving at the base of a tree trunk. The leaves and branches from a tree filter out the sunlight and keep the plant shaded and cool. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60-85 degrees, and no less than 40 degree during winter months. This is why they do so well in Central and South Florida. As with most plants in tropical regions, this fern thrives on high humidity.

In Central Florida and other tropical climates, these ferns are often grown in containers and seen hanging from trees. In other situations, if you look carefully you will notice them growing out of the trunk of the tree.

Make sure with this fern you allow plenty of room for it to grow. This plant will become large and will need room to space out. You will also have to keep an eye open for scale insects. If you see that your plant has become covered with the bugs, run it underneath tap water. If the plant is oversized for the sink, put inside a tub to rinse it off. Make sure you shake off excess water to prevent fungus from forming. The simple step we've outlined here will keep your plant healthy and strong for years. To learn more about the staghorn fern follow the link.