The long fronds that hang down are named fertile fronds because on their back they have dark brown patches of spores that the plant uses for reproduction. The other type of fronds grow back toward the tree and reach high above the bud. They protect the roots, collect water from above, and store water for the roots. They are called base fronds. It is normal each year for the base fronds to turn brown and die.
Roots grow among the dead ones.
Usually in December a new set of green base fronds appear to cover the old dead brown ones. This giant plant has no bulb or special food storage structure. Plants of the genus Platycerium have been my hobby for 23 years. My first trip to San Martin was with Mr. Lee Moore in December of 1995. I returned in March of 1996, May of 1997 and August of 1999 to concentrate on studying Platycerium andinum and trying to save its habitat.