Platycerium bifucatum Stag Horn Fern Baby in 6 cm pot

Commonly known as the Elk Fern or Stag Horn Fern.  native to Java, New Guinea, New South Wales, Queensland, and Lord Howe Island.

When fully mature these amazing plants can reach up to a metre in diameter. The Platycium bifucatum grows from short rhizomes that produce two types of fronds.  Non-reproductive basal fronds are the rounded heart shaped shield like structures which can be found at the base of the plant.  These in time turn to a cinnamon brown. In their natural habitat these clasping fronds serve to protect the roots and rhizomes of the plant.  They also collect detritus which in turn feeds the plants with the nutrients it needs.  Then you have the irregular lobed arching fronds which most of us would consider to be the leaves.  

In their natural environment these unusual ferns will grow as epiphytes, using trees as their host.  When grown in pots in our homes they require rich, well-drained soil.  Water once or twice a week, pay particular attention to its watering needs during the summer months.  The Staghorn fern loves humidity and will therefore thrive in a bathroom or kitchen or simply mist a couple of times a week.  Prefers bright to indirect light.  Avoid direct sunlight as this will scorch the leaves.