Staghorn Ferns - Platycerium bifurcatum

I got a case of Staghorn Fern Fever and these guys hanging out in Golden Gate Park has the cure.  The top bunch can be found in the Primitive Plant Section in the Strybing Arboretum, but don’t touch…….cuz they may have tracking devices.  I heard about this, but thought it was an urban legend.

Staghorn Ferns - Platycerium bifurcatum

You’ll also find Stags in the Australian section (above) and I remember seeing some near the old Redwoods.  Staghorns…also known as Elkhorn Ferns in some parts…will attach themselves to trees, but don’t actually leach any nutrients from their host tree.  It’s strictly just for support.

Mounted Staghorn Fern

BTW, I’m getting excited for the Staghorn Mounting Class we are teaching tonight.  Above is one of my old school experimental mounting techniques.  Now we use all sorts of reclaimed wood.

– Far Out Flora