Netherlands Staghorn Fern

Netherlands Staghorn Fern (Platycerium bifurcatum 'Netherlands') is a compact form of the classic Australian staghorn, reaching about 60cm high and 1m wide, around half the bulk of the species. Broad, fan-shaped fronds form a nest on top while heavily divided fronds hang below like antlers. Mounted on a tree or grown in a pot, it adds drama and a sense of age to a shaded garden.

Why you'll love it

• Half the size of the species. The Netherlands form stays compact, so it suits courtyards, verandahs and small trees.
• A sculptural shape. Shield-like fronds form a nest, and divided fronds hang below like a stag's antlers. Young leaves are strappy and take on the divided shape as they mature.
• An Australian native. The species is native to Queensland and New South Wales, as well as parts of Java and Indonesia.
• No soil bed needed. As an epiphyte it grows on a tree branch or a mount, which saves garden space.
• Easy to multiply. Rooted plantlets can be separated and tied onto new trees, so one plant can become several over the years.

Where it works best

Tied to a tree. Fix it to a trunk or branch where it gets dappled light, using old tights or stretchy bands that will not cut into the plant. Avoid deep shade, and allow about 1m of space for the fronds to hang.

Verandahs, courtyards and pots. Mounted on a board or in a hanging basket, it makes a living wall feature in a sheltered spot. A young plant also looks good in a pot on a bright windowsill.

Growing Netherlands Staghorn Fern in Australia

Position and climate. Dappled light, humidity and temperatures above 5C. It comes from tropical and subtropical rainforest, so tropical, subtropical and sheltered warm temperate gardens suit it best. In colder areas grow it in a pot and bring it indoors for winter.

Soil. None in the usual sense. It grows on bark, a branch or a wire mount, with sphagnum moss or coarse bark around the roots. If potted, use an open, orchid style mix, not garden soil.

Water and feed. In dry summer weeks, water the nest and the roots, letting it dry slightly between drinks. Add diluted seaweed solution every month, and cut back watering and feeding in winter. Some gardeners drop cold tea leaves or banana skins into the nest.

Pruning. None needed. The brown shield fronds at the base protect the roots, so leave them in place. To make new plants, separate rooted plantlets and tie them to fresh trees.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Netherlands Staghorn Fern as tube stock and in 200mm pots in packs of 6. Tube stock is a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly, though it builds its full shape over several seasons, while the 200mm pots give you a more developed plant to mount straight away.

Tube stock comes from our grower and is not always available. When the grower has none, the tube shows as sold out, and the notify button on this page emails you the day it is back.

Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• Ferns for shady areas
• Palms, ferns and tropical plants
• Growing ferns in Australia: light, humidity and placement
• Plants for partial shade

Common questions

Can I grow it indoors?

Yes, while it is small. Choose bright, indirect light and some humidity, then move it to a tree or board outside as it grows.

How do I water a staghorn?

In dry summer weeks, give the nest and roots a soak, then let it dry slightly before the next. Cut back watering and feeding in winter.

Is it safe for pets?

Staghorn ferns are not listed as toxic to cats or dogs, so a mounted plant is a safe choice for a pet friendly garden.