Platycerium Elephantotis – Rare Elephant Ear Staghorn Fern

Description

Platycerium Elephantotis – The Giant Elephant Ear Staghorn Fern

Platycerium Elephantotis is one of the rarest and most spectacular members of the Staghorn Fern family. Native to tropical Africa, this extraordinary fern is admired for its massive, velvety fronds that resemble elephant ears, giving rise to its common name Elephant Ear Staghorn Fern.

Unlike traditional staghorn ferns with antler-like fronds, Platycerium Elephantotis develops broad, silver-green fertile fronds with a soft felt-like texture. Its unique appearance makes it a prized collector’s plant and a stunning focal point in tropical gardens, greenhouses, shaded balconies, and indoor plant collections.

Other Names

• Elephant Ear Staghorn Fern
• Platycerium Elephantotis
• African Staghorn Fern
• Rare Staghorn Fern
• Elephant Ear Fern

Why Plant Collectors Love It

• Extremely rare and highly collectible fern
• Large elephant ear-shaped fronds
• Unique silver-green velvety foliage
• Excellent mounted display plant
• Perfect for tropical plant collections
• Adds a dramatic rainforest aesthetic
• Suitable for indoor and outdoor shaded spaces
• Conversation-starting specimen plant

Plant Size

• Healthy established plant
• Approximate size varies by age and season
• Delivered in nursery pot, basket, or mounted form depending on availability

Care Guide

Light

Prefers bright indirect light or filtered sunlight. Avoid harsh direct afternoon sun, which can damage the fronds.

Watering

Allow the growing medium to become slightly dry between waterings. Water thoroughly and ensure good airflow around the plant.

Humidity

Thrives in moderate to high humidity. Ideal humidity range is 60–80%.

Growing Medium

Can be grown mounted on wood, tree fern panels, baskets, or in a chunky epiphytic mix with excellent drainage.

Temperature

Prefers temperatures between 18°C and 32°C. Protect from cold winds and temperatures below 12°C.

Fertilizer

Feed monthly with a diluted balanced fertilizer during active growth.

Growing Guide Across India

Mumbai, Goa & Coastal Regions

Excellent growing conditions due to naturally high humidity. Thrives in shaded balconies and gardens.

Bangalore, Pune & Moderate Climate Cities

Performs beautifully in bright shaded locations with occasional misting.

Delhi, Rajasthan & Northern India

Best grown indoors or in protected shaded areas. Increase humidity during dry months.

Kerala, Tamil Nadu & Tropical South India

Ideal climate for vigorous growth due to warmth and humidity.

Hill Stations & Cooler Regions

Grow in protected locations and avoid prolonged cold exposure.

Ideal Placement

• Mounted on wooden boards
• Shaded balconies
• Indoor plant walls
• Greenhouses
• Tropical gardens
• Covered patios
• Rare plant collections

Special Note

Platycerium Elephantotis is considered one of the most desirable species among fern and aroid collectors. As the plant matures, its enormous elephant ear-shaped fronds create a truly spectacular display that few other ferns can match.