Source: Wikimedia Commons
Elephant Ear Staghorn Fern (Platycerium elephantotis)
IntermediatePlatycerium elephantotis
A staghorn fern whose fertile fronds are undivided, broad and pendulous, like elephant ears. Its large bright green shield fronds are renewed each season.
About
Platycerium elephantotis is an epiphytic fern in the family Polypodiaceae native to tropical Africa. Known in English as the Angola staghorn or elephant ear staghorn, it was formerly also called P. angolense; the epithet means 'elephant's ear'. The key feature is the fertile frond: where other staghorns have antler-like, forked fronds, this species produces long, broad, undivided fronds that hang down with no notches or fingers along the lower edge, likened to elephant ears. The shield fronds are large and bright green, massing over the base. Growth is strongly seasonal: last year's shields die in spring, new shields form in summer, and new fertile fronds follow. It recovers well if it wilts during a dry spell but rots easily if kept wet in low light. In bright, warm conditions it pups freely, grows large and lives for many years. In Japan it is regularly stocked by specialist nurseries. Detailed scholarly descriptions are hard to obtain, and hobbyist identification guides and botanic garden records are the main sources.
Basic Info
Origin
Tropical Africa
Lifespan
Perennial (epiphytic fern)
Size
Little measured data; fertile fronds are long, broad and pendulous
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
Likes bright, warm conditions; kept wet in low light it rots easily.
Watering
In the growing season water the crown and let the roots dry slightly between waterings. It recovers well from wilting, but avoid constant wetness.
Temperature & Overwintering
A tropical African species that dislikes cold. Keep it in a warm room in winter.
Soil & Repotting
Grow mounted or in sphagnum. Last year's shields die in spring and new ones form in summer; trimming the tops of the old shields helps the new ones grow upright.
Propagation
In bright, warm conditions it pups freely; divide well-grown pups.
Pests & Cautions
Seasonal die-back of the shield fronds is part of the growth cycle, so do not discard the plant. Watch for spider mites, aphids and mealybugs. The white star-shaped hairs on the fronds protect the plant, so do not rub them off.
Elephant Ear Staghorn Fern (Platycerium elephantotis) FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Elephant Ear Staghorn Fern (Platycerium elephantotis)?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QHow should I water and fertilize Elephant Ear Staghorn Fern (Platycerium elephantotis)?
Elephant Ear Staghorn Fern (Platycerium elephantotis): 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 Elephant Ear Staghorn Fern (Platycerium elephantotis)?
The price of Elephant Ear Staghorn Fern (Platycerium elephantotis) 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.
Primary sources
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.
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