Elephant Ear Staghorn Fern | Platycerium elephantotis | Care Guide and Pro Tips - Delivery from Toronto across Canada - JOMO Studio

6" Pot

Pet Friendly

Elephant Ear Staghorn Fern

$45

Medium - Bright

When mostly dry

High

+ More

Size:

6" Pot

Variant

Elephant Ear Staghorn Fern, aka Elephantotis Fern or Angola Staghorn Fern, scientifically known as Platycerium elephantotis, is a distinctive and dramatic epiphytic fern native to Central Africa. This species is named for its large, elephant ear-shaped fertile fronds that resemble the ears of an elephant, which makes it quite unique among the staghorn ferns. These fronds can grow quite large and do not fork, unlike other Staghorn varieties, making a striking visual impact. In addition to its fertile fronds, it produces smaller, shield-like sterile fronds that cover the base of the plant and help attach it to the surfaces on which it grows. This fern is ideal for growing on tree trunks or in large hanging baskets where its fronds can develop fully and be displayed attractively.

What to expect

The plant comes with a default nursery pot. The nursery pot is usually 0.5" - 1" smaller than stated to fit into the same size decorative pot. Washable Paper Planter Bags are sold separately.

As with all living things, no two plants are alike. There is some natural variation in size, shape, and characteristics. We make every effort to bring you a plant that as closely as possible matches the plant as it appears on our website, in the size you have chosen, and have a good potential to happily grow in your home.

Carbon-neutral delivery

All of our deliveries are carbon neutral.

In store shopping and free local pick up available at our store located at 21A Bathurst St, Toronto.

Free local delivery* available within City of Toronto and surrounding areas including Mississauga, Brampton, Vaughan, Richmond Hill, Markham, and Scarborough.

Shipping options are available for plants and planters that are 7" or smaller to all provinces in Canada.

Winter safe packaging

We check the destination weather for each package to make sure they arrive safely with whatever it takes. Complimentary heat packs and insulations are included to protect your plants from cold damage when mailing in a box, if weather requires.

Visit us in person

All of our plants available online are also available at our downtown Toronto store. Feel free to visit us and explore our green oasis for more inspiration and a firsthand look at our diverse collections. Our team is there to answer any questions and help with all your plant needs, whether you're shopping online or in-store.

Elephant Ear Staghorn Fern

6" Pot

·

$45

Pro tips

Staghorn ferns have two types of fronds: shield fronds and bifurcated (forked) fronds. The former is located at the base of the plant and grow flatly, often appearing dried out or dead (don't fall in to the temptation of removing them). The bifurcated fronds are what the plant gets its common name from, as their forked appearance is reminiscent of deer antlers. Do not over-fertilize as this can harm the plant. Remove any dead or dying fronds to maintain plant health and aesthetics. If growing on a board or in a basket, ensure that the mounting material is secure and provides adequate support for the weight of the mature plant.

Care Guide

How to take care of Elephant Ear Staghorn Fern

Sun: Indirect

Elephant Ear Staghorn Fern should not be in a position to see the sun directly, although early morning or late evening sun is fine. Filtered sunlight through a sheer curtain is best and most homes are comprised primarily of indirect sunlight. The best spot for them is where they do not see the sun during the majority of the day but still get bright, indirect light.

Light: Medium - Bright

Elephant Ear Staghorn Fern will do best in bright light. A nice bright place inside your home would be on the window sill or a stool that is right next to a window, either with or without blinds, depending on if the plant can handle sun. Remember that plants will grow based on how much light they receive.

Water: When mostly dry

Elephant Ear Staghorn Fern likes the soil to be relatively dry before the next watering. That usually takes about 2 weeks in an average home environment. It will vary depending on the time of year, your environment and lighting conditions, but for them, it's always safer to underwater or water when you see signs of lack of water (i.e. droopy, floppy, or soft leaves). Expect to water more often in brighter light and less often in lower light.

Humidity: High

Elephant Ear Staghorn Fern likes a high humidity environment, give them a mist daily or as often as possible. Alternatively, you can put them around a humidifier. Although they won't die if they don't receive enough humidity, their leaves may have some dry, crunchy, or yellow edges.

Pet Friendly

You can feel comfortable having Elephant Ear Staghorn Fern around your home in the potential case where your pet feels like nibbling on it. However, we typically recommend keeping your pets from eating any of your houseplants.

Plant Bio

About Elephant Ear Staghorn Fern

Botanical Name: Platycerium elephantotis

Common Name: Elephant Ear Staghorn Fern, Elephantotis Fern, Angola Staghorn Fern

Origin: Central Africa

Plant Story

Introducing the Elephant Ear Staghorn Fern, scientifically known as Platycerium elephantotis, a remarkable and visually striking houseplant that not only enhances the aesthetics of your indoor or outdoor space but also symbolizes resilience, ecological harmony, and the fascinating complexity of nature.

The Elephant Ear Staghorn Fern is unique among ferns for its large, broad fronds that resemble the ears of an elephant, giving it its distinctive name. This species is part of the Staghorn fern family, known for their epiphytic nature and unusual growth patterns. The "elephant ear" fronds are the fertile fronds that extend and curve dramatically, displaying a rugged texture and a pale green to grayish hue, while the smaller, shield-like sterile fronds clasp the growing surface and help the plant absorb moisture and nutrients.

To care for your Elephant Ear Staghorn Fern, provide it with bright, indirect light or filtered shade. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the fronds, while too little light may inhibit growth. This plant thrives in environments that mimic the dappled light of its natural habitat in the rainforest.

Watering should be consistent, aiming to keep the plant moist but not waterlogged. As an epiphyte, the Elephant Ear Staghorn Fern does not grow in soil but may be mounted on organic materials like wood or hung in a basket with sphagnum moss. It requires high humidity and regular watering, especially during the warmer months, but it's crucial to allow any excess water to drain away to prevent rot.

This fern is not only a stunning decorative addition; it also plays a role in purifying the air and creating a healthier living environment. Its presence in your home or garden can increase moisture in the air and help reduce airborne dust.

As your Elephant Ear Staghorn Fern grows, it becomes more than just a plant; it's a living symbol of the adaptability and beauty of epiphytic plants. It serves as a reminder of the lush, layered ecosystems of tropical rainforests and our role in preserving these complex habitats.

Welcome the Elephant Ear Staghorn Fern into your space, and let it serve as a testament to the wonders of nature's designs, the importance of ecological preservation, and the joy of nurturing a piece of the natural world. It’s not just a plant; it’s a celebration of life’s capacity to adapt and thrive in harmony with its environment.

Monday	11 AM - 6 PM
Tuesday (Reduced hour)	1 PM - 6 PM
Wednesday	11 AM - 6 PM
Thursday	11 AM - 6 PM
Friday	11 AM - 7 PM
Saturday	11 AM - 7 PM
Sunday	11 AM - 7 PM
Holidays	Get holiday hours

Elephant Ear Staghorn Fern

Plant now, pay later with 4 interest-free payments for orders above $10

Local Pickup and Shop In-Store

Local Delivery

Shipping in a Box