Source: Wikimedia Commons
Crown Staghorn Fern (Platycerium coronarium)
AdvancedPlatycerium coronarium
A staghorn fern whose shield fronds rise into finger-like lobes forming a crown-shaped basket, with long, narrow fertile fronds hanging like a net. Spores form on ear-like, semicircular special lobes.
About
Platycerium coronarium is a large epiphytic fern in the family Polypodiaceae, distributed from Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam through western and central Malesia, including Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra, Borneo and the Philippines. NParks records that fully grown plants reach 3 m long and 1.5 m across, with a short, fleshy rhizome hidden in the basket formed by the upper fronds. There are three key features. First, the shield fronds are fan-shaped and topped by erect, finger-like lobes that overlap into a crown-shaped basket; the epithet coronarium ('crown-like') refers to this. Second, the fertile fronds are narrow straps that hang limply up to about 2 m long, forking repeatedly into a net-like curtain. Third, the sporangia are not on the underside of the fertile fronds but densely cover special semicircular, ear-like lobes that arise partway along them. Only P. coronarium and its close relative P. ridleyi have these special lobes; P. ridleyi has upright fertile fronds and a rounded, closed shield, so they are easy to separate. NParks recommends semi-shade to sun, moderate watering with occasional misting, and a shallow growing medium. In Japan spore-grown plants and selected clones are sold by specialist nurseries.
Size of the Crown Staghorn Fern (Platycerium coronarium)
The Crown Staghorn Fern (Platycerium coronarium) grows to Up to 3 m long and 1.5 m across when fully grown; fertile fronds hang to about 2 m.
Basic Info
Origin
Southeast Asia (Indochina to Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra, Borneo and the Philippines)
Lifespan
Perennial (epiphytic fern)
Size
Up to 3 m long and 1.5 m across when fully grown; fertile fronds hang to about 2 m
Temperature
15〜30℃
Humidity
50〜70%
Watering & Fertilizer
Little data on feeding; in the wild, leaf litter trapped by the shield fronds decomposes to supply nutrients
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
Sun to semi-shade. It likes bright light, but indoors avoid long hours of harsh direct sun. Hang it high so the long fertile fronds can drape.
Watering
Moderate watering with occasional misting to maintain humidity.
Temperature & Overwintering
A tropical species that dislikes cold. Keep it in a warm room or greenhouse in winter.
Soil & Repotting
Mount on a board or tree-fern slab, or plant in a shallow pot with sphagnum. Mounted and hung plants best show off the pendulous fronds.
Propagation
Mainly propagated from spores.
Pests & Cautions
Watch for spider mites, aphids and mealybugs. The white star-shaped hairs on the fronds protect the plant, so do not rub them off.
Crown Staghorn Fern (Platycerium coronarium) FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Crown Staghorn Fern (Platycerium coronarium)?
Advanced. A variety suitable for advanced growers. Requires advanced cultivation techniques and specialized equipment, with careful environmental adjustments needed.
QHow large does Crown Staghorn Fern (Platycerium coronarium) get?
The mature size of Crown Staghorn Fern (Platycerium coronarium) is Up to 3 m long and 1.5 m across when fully grown; fertile fronds hang to about 2 m. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Crown Staghorn Fern (Platycerium coronarium)?
Crown Staghorn Fern (Platycerium coronarium): watering & fertilizer — Little data on feeding; in the wild, leaf litter trapped by the shield fronds decomposes to supply nutrients. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Crown Staghorn Fern (Platycerium coronarium)?
The price of Crown Staghorn Fern (Platycerium coronarium) varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices. Not a designated invasive alien species in Japan, nor a nationally rare species under the Act on Conservation of Endangered Species.
Sources: Species+ (CITES listing check) / Ministry of the Environment: List of Invasive Alien Species
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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