Staghorn Fern 'SS Foong'

🌿 The Staghorn Fern 'SS Foong' (Platycerium bifurcatum 'SS Foong') is a striking epiphytic fern from the Polypodiaceae family, native to the rainforests of Australia, New Guinea, and Southeast Asia. In its natural habitat, this fern grows on tree trunks and branches, anchoring itself with specialized roots while absorbing moisture and nutrients from the air and rain. This variety is well-suited for intermediate to advanced plant enthusiasts who enjoy experimenting with mounting and creative displays. Here's a fun fact: Staghorn Ferns produce two distinct types of fronds—shield fronds that attach to surfaces and turn brown as they mature (this is completely normal), and the antler-like fertile fronds that grow outward and give the plant its distinctive appearance.
FOLIAGE AND GROWTH HABIT
This fern has a unique epiphytic growth habit, naturally attaching to surfaces rather than growing in soil. The 'SS Foong' variety produces large, deeply divided fertile fronds that extend outward like the antlers of a stag, with a silvery-green colour and soft, velvety texture. At the base, rounded shield fronds overlap and turn papery brown as they age, forming a protective nest that holds moisture and organic matter. The overall structure creates a sculptural, three-dimensional appearance that adds dramatic visual interest to any space.
FLOWER DETAILS
Staghorn Ferns do not produce flowers. Instead, they reproduce through spores that develop on the underside of the fertile fronds in brownish patches. These spore patches appear as the plant matures and are a natural part of the fern's reproductive cycle. While the plant won't bloom in the traditional sense, the architectural beauty of the fronds themselves provides year-round visual appeal. The sculptural form and unique growth pattern make this fern a living piece of art that doesn't rely on flowers for its aesthetic impact.
CARE INSTRUCTIONS
🌞 Light: Bright indirect light for 4-6 hours daily. Can tolerate some morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon rays that can scorch fronds.
💧 Water: Soak or mist 2-3 times weekly in summer, once weekly in winter. Water when shield fronds feel dry. If mounted, submerge in water for 10-20 minutes, then drain. If potted, water thoroughly until it drains.
🌡️ Humidity: Prefers 50-70% humidity. Mist regularly or place in naturally humid rooms.
🪴 Soil: When potted, use a chunky, well-draining mix with orchid bark, perlite, and peat moss. Best mounted on wood or cork.
🏺 Potting: Wire baskets or wooden mounts work best. If using a pot, choose one with excellent drainage. Repot or remount every 2-3 years when shield fronds outgrow the surface.
🌱 Growth rate: Moderate. New fronds emerge every few months. Mature plants can reach 60-90 cm wide and tall within 3-5 years.
👩‍🌾 Fertilizing: Feed monthly during spring and summer with diluted liquid fertilizer (quarter strength). Apply to fronds or add to soaking water. Reduce feeding in autumn and winter.
🐾 Pet friendly: Yes, non-toxic to cats and dogs. Safe for homes with curious pets.
WHERE TO PUT IT
The Staghorn Fern 'SS Foong' thrives in bathrooms where humidity is naturally higher, or in bright living rooms and bedrooms with good air circulation. It's perfect for mounting on walls as living art, hanging in baskets near windows, or placing on plant stands where its fronds can cascade freely. This fern works beautifully in modern, bohemian, or tropical-inspired spaces. Avoid placing it in dark corners, near heating vents, or in rooms with consistently dry air, as these conditions will cause the fronds to brown and the plant to decline.