Staghorn Ferns (Platycerium spp.) are unique and ancient plants that reproduce in ways quite different from flowering plants. For American gardeners curious about the reproductive cycle of these fascinating epiphytes, here’s what you need to know:

Do Staghorn Ferns Produce Flowers?

No, Staghorn Ferns do not flower. As true ferns, they belong to a group of plants that reproduce through spores rather than seeds produced by flowers. If you’re looking for blooms on your Staghorn Fern, you’ll be looking in vain!

How Do Staghorn Ferns Reproduce?

Staghorn Ferns have two primary methods of reproduction:

1. Reproduction by Spores:

• Spore Production on Fertile Fronds: The primary means of natural reproduction for Staghorn Ferns is through tiny spores produced on their fertile (antler-like) fronds.
• Sori Location: These spores are contained in structures called sporangia, which are clustered together in brownish masses known as sori. The location of the sori varies depending on the species of Staghorn Fern but is typically found on the underside of the tips or lobes of the fertile fronds.
• Spore Release and Germination: When the spores mature, they are released into the air and can be carried by wind to new locations. If they land in a suitable environment with the right conditions of moisture and humidity, they can germinate and eventually grow into new Staghorn Ferns. This process can be quite slow and is more challenging to replicate in home cultivation compared to other methods.

2. Reproduction by Division (Offsets or Pups):

• Vegetative Propagation: Mature Staghorn Ferns often produce small offshoots, also known as plantlets or pups, around their base, typically near the shield (basal) fronds. These pups are essentially clones of the parent plant.
• Separating and Mounting Pups: These offsets can be carefully removed from the parent plant once they have developed a few small fronds and some root structure. This is a more common and faster method of propagation for home gardeners.
• Mounting the New Plant: Once separated, these pups can be mounted on their own board or placed in a suitable growing medium to develop into independent Staghorn Ferns. It’s important to ensure each removed pup has some of the basal frond and roots attached for successful establishment.

In summary, Staghorn Ferns do not flower or produce seeds. They reproduce through the release of spores from their fertile fronds and vegetatively through the growth of offsets or pups at the base of the plant, which can be separated and grown independently.