Platycerium grande, the giant staghorn fern, capa de leon, and dapong repolyo, is a species of epiphytic fern in the family Polypodiaceae. It is one of the two staghorn ferns native to the Philippines, along with P. coronarium, and is endemic to the island of Mindanao, in the provinces of Zamboanga, Lanao and Davao. P. grande is often collected from the forests and sold as a highly prized ornamental plant. Due to overcollection and the difficulty of the spores to germinate under natural conditions, in vitro technique is necessary to ensure mass production of this plant species. The local government categorized it as critically endangered species.
Giant staghorn fern typically shows strong disease resistance and is affected by relatively few insect pests. Its care is considered challenging, since it needs a consistently moist setting and frequent watering. If its roots receive too much water and the surroundings lack good airflow, they are susceptible to rotting. This fern is best suited to people who have some growing experience, as many can keep it alive for a period. Still, the Giant staghorn fern can struggle to prosper, and over time its fronds may dry out and lose vigor.
How to keep Platycerium Grande.
Light
The giant staghorn fern is native to habitats such as forest understories or rocky sites that provide natural shade. It prefers full shade but can tolerate partial sun.
Temperature
The giant staghorn fern comes from tropical areas where the weather is usually warm and humid. Because of that, it is well suited to high temperatures and humidity. It does not like abrupt temperature changes and prefers a consistent temperature, so avoiding indoor temperature swings is important. It generally cannot tolerate cold and needs warmer conditions to grow. If the ambient temperature becomes too low, the plant may stop growing or even die.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Fern
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Platycerium
- Family
- Polypodiaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 10-12
- Mature Height
- 49 cm to 91 cm
- Mature Spread
- 0.61 m to 1.22 m
- Leaf Color
- Forest Green, Olive Drab
- Leaf Type
- Semi-evergreen
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Native Area
- Indonesia, Philippines
Other names.
