Holttums staghorn fern is a tree-growing epiphyte (living off the air and residue around the tree it is attached to) native to Southeast Asia. It is a popular ornamental plant in this region and is grown elsewhere as an attention-grabbing houseplant. It requires a sunny and humid environment to thrive. Its scientific name is derived from Dr. R. E. Holttum, a prominent naturalist from New England.
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Perennial
Lifespan
5 - 38 ℃
Ideal Temperature
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Care Guide
Images of Holttums staghorn fern
Care Guide for Holttums staghorn fern
Every week
Water
Partial sun
Sunlight
5 - 38 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Water:
The holttums staghorn fern requires regular watering, approximately once a week during warmer months, allowing soil to dry and fronds to wilt slightly before watering. In winter, reduce to bi-monthly. Humidity is crucial; mist only new green leaves to prevent disrupting spore production from dark, lower leaves.
Fertilize:
Holttums staghorn fern thrives with a balanced, low-concentration fertilizer. Young plants benefit from monthly feeding during growth and bi-monthly when dormant, while established plants require only one or two feeds in the season. Consider 1:1:1 organic or 8:8:8 chemical fertilizers; banana peels can boost potassium.
Pruning:
Holttums staghorn fern requires no pruning and cannot withstand heavy trimming. Remove only damaged fronds, avoiding the removal of surrounding plants that nourish it. Regularly separate offshoots to prevent overcrowding and ensure healthy growth.
Propagation:
Holttums staghorn fern propagates via spores and pups. Pups, which grow at the base, can be removed with a sharp knife. Once removed, the pup should be wrapped in damp sphagnum moss and loosely tied to bark or wood for propagation.
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