Staghorn Fern
About the Staghorn Fern in Singapore
Last updated 31 May 2026
The Staghorn Fern (Platycerium coronarium) is a striking, large epiphytic fern native to Singapore. You will often see these magnificent plants clinging high up in the canopy of mature forest trees or mounted on trees in local gardens.
Identifying features
Check out some identifying features of the Staghorn Fern!
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The Staghorn Fern features two distinct types of fronds: broad, cabbage-like "nest fronds" that clasp tightly against the tree trunk, and pendulous, deeply lobed "foliage fronds" that hang downwards, resembling the branched antlers of a stag. Tucked at the base of these hanging foliage fronds is a specialized, kidney-shaped lobe where the brown sorus (spore-producing structure) is located.
Habitat and ecology
Like the Bird's Nest Fern, it is an epiphyte and grows on other plants for physical support. The specialized nest fronds are designed to catch falling leaf litter and water, funneling it directly into the plant's rhizomes. Over time, the older nest fronds die and turn brown, acting as a spongy, water-holding anchor while new green ones grow over them.
Frequently asked questions
Q: Is it a parasite that will kill the tree it is attached to?
Often mistaken for a parasite, the Staghorn Fern is completely harmless to its host despite being wrapped tightly around branches! It merely uses the tree as a physical perch for better access to sunlight instead of stealing any water or nutrients from the tree itself.
Learn more about the Staghorn Fern!
Curious about the Staghorn Fern? Here are some interesting articles you can read to learn more about them.
