Source: Wikimedia Commons
Giant Staghorn Fern (Platycerium grande)
AdvancedPlatycerium grande
A giant staghorn fern endemic to Mindanao in the Philippines. It closely resembles P. superbum but carries two equal spore patches on each divided lobe of the fertile frond.
About
Platycerium grande is a large epiphytic fern in the family Polypodiaceae, endemic to Mindanao in the Philippines (Zamboanga, Lanao and Davao). It is one of only two staghorns native to the Philippines, the other being P. coronarium. NParks records sterile shield fronds 90-115 cm long and 90-135 cm wide, and semicircular spore patches 10-45 cm long and 8-35 cm wide under the fertile fronds. It was long treated as the same species as the Australian P. superbum until they were separated in the 1970s. The spore patches are the main difference: P. superbum has a single patch in the sinus of the first fork, whereas P. grande has two equal patches on either side of each divided lobe. Young plants may produce an undivided first fertile frond with only one patch, so identification can be hard until mature, forked fronds appear. Its hanging frond tips also tend to be narrower than those of P. superbum. In the wild, over-collection and poor natural spore germination have reduced it, and it is locally classed as critically endangered; reliable mass propagation requires techniques such as tissue culture. It is harder to grow and less cold tolerant than P. superbum. In Japan it is sold by specialist nurseries, but because P. superbum has long been sold under this name, check the spore patches when buying.
Size of the Giant Staghorn Fern (Platycerium grande)
The Giant Staghorn Fern (Platycerium grande) grows to Shield fronds reach 90-115 cm long and 90-135 cm wide.
Basic Info
Origin
Philippines (Mindanao)
Lifespan
Perennial (epiphytic fern)
Size
Shield fronds reach 90-115 cm long and 90-135 cm wide
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
Semi-shade. Avoid strong direct sun and hang it in a bright, airy spot.
Watering
Water the crown regularly, letting the roots dry slightly between waterings but never completely. Soak mounted plants or water the base thoroughly.
Temperature & Overwintering
Less cold tolerant than P. superbum. Keep it in a warm room or greenhouse in winter.
Soil & Repotting
Mount on a board or tree-fern slab with sphagnum moss, or pot in an orchid mix or sphagnum. The shield fronds grow over the base to cover the roots, so never peel them off.
Propagation
It produces no pups and cannot be divided; it is propagated from spores or by tissue culture.
Pests & Cautions
P. superbum has long been sold under this name, so confirm by the number and shape of spore patches on mature fronds. Watch for spider mites, aphids and mealybugs. The white star-shaped hairs on the fronds protect the plant, so do not rub them off.
Giant Staghorn Fern (Platycerium grande) FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Giant Staghorn Fern (Platycerium grande)?
Advanced. A variety suitable for advanced growers. Requires advanced cultivation techniques and specialized equipment, with careful environmental adjustments needed.
QHow large does Giant Staghorn Fern (Platycerium grande) get?
The mature size of Giant Staghorn Fern (Platycerium grande) is Shield fronds reach 90-115 cm long and 90-135 cm wide. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Giant Staghorn Fern (Platycerium grande)?
Giant Staghorn Fern (Platycerium grande): 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 Giant Staghorn Fern (Platycerium grande)?
The price of Giant Staghorn Fern (Platycerium grande) 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
- Species+ (CITES listing check)
- Ministry of the Environment: List of Invasive Alien Species
- NParks Flora & Fauna Web - Platycerium grande
- Wikipedia - Platycerium grande
- Hobbyist's Guide to Identifying Platyceriums (H. Halling, LAIFS; archived) - Platycerium grande
- Flora of Australia - Platycerium superbum
- GBIF
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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