Platycerium ridleyi is a distinctive epiphytic fern displaying large, antler-like fronds. These fronds, impressively bifurcated, are adapted to the plant's tree-dwelling lifestyle, allowing for efficient spore dispersal and moisture collection from its tropical rainforest canopy home. The fern's shield fronds form a flat base that clings to tree trunks, creating a striking vertical display.
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Fern
Plant Type
5 - 38 ℃
Ideal Temperature
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Care Guide
Care Guide for Platycerium ridleyi
Every week
Water
Partial sun
Sunlight
5 - 38 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Water:
Platycerium ridleyi thrives on regular watering, typically once a week in warmer months, ensuring soil dries and fronds wilt slightly before watering. In winter, reduce to twice a month. Maintaining humidity is crucial; mist only the new green leaves, avoiding dark, dry ones that produce spores.
Fertilize:
Feed your platycerium ridleyi with a balanced, low-concentration fertilizer every month during growth, and bimonthly when dormant. Established plants need one to two feeds per growing season. Use a fertilizer ratio of 1:1:1 (organic) or 8:8:8 (chemical) for optimal results. Consider adding banana peels for potassium.
Pruning:
Platycerium ridleyi requires minimal care, as it doesn’t tolerate heavy pruning. Remove only damaged fronds and avoid cutting surrounding plants that provide nutrition. Regularly separate offshoots to prevent overcrowding and ensure healthy growth.
Propagation:
Unlike most plants, platycerium ridleyi reproduces by spores, which are difficult to propagate. Alternatively, it can be propagated through 'pups' at the base of its stems. These should be gently removed, wrapped in damp sphagnum moss, and loosely tied to bark or wood.
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