Platycerium bifurcatum (staghorn fern)

This large fern originates from eastern Australia (New South Wales and Queensland) and grows there as an epiphyte on larger trees. It produces two different types of leaves. First, there are the normal fronds, which in older plants bear spores, and second, the so-called "mantle fronds." The fronds of P. bifurcatum are distinctly forked twice (hence the name) and covered with hairs that protect them from drying out. The mantle fronds cling to the substrate and protect the rhizome and roots. Older mantle fronds die and turn brown, but remain attached to the fern. In this species, the mantle fronds form an upward-facing funnel in which leaves and detritus collect. This leaf matter is decomposed by microorganisms into compost, which serves as food for the fern.

The staghorn fern can grow very large over time, reaching over 1 meter in diameter. It grows best when mounted or attached laterally to a substrate such as cork. This allows it to develop the shape it naturally acquires.