Ferns, of which there are over 10,000 species, are non-flowering perennials which offer versatile usage in home and in the landscape. One of the most unusual ferns is the staghorn fern . The staghorn fern is an epiphyte or air plant which is normally found growing on the side of trees in its native habitat.
Spores appear as brownish masses on the tips of the antler-like fertile fronds.
These spores will produce new plants when sown on moist, sterile peatmoss. The staghorn fern can be used to cast the spell of the tropics and add interest to a patio wall. In frostless areas, specimens thrive on palm trunks or on branches of woody trees. The culture of the staghorn fern is not difficult except that the plants are sensitive to the lack of drainage, to low temperature, and to low humidity. These points of culture should receive special attention and a moist atmosphere and a warm temperature should be provided for the best development of the plants.