Family:  Polypodiaceae
Scientific name:  Platycerium hillii
Common name:  Staghorn fern

Native of:  Australia, New Guinea

Greenhouse location:  Rooms F, G, J, and P

A curious fern that produces two types of fronds: shield fronds and fertile fronds. The common name "staghorn fern" comes from the fertile frond's similar appearance to a deer antler or stag horn. The fertile fronds elongate at the tips when the plant's reproductive cycle begins. Spores are produced on the underside of the fertile fronds. At the base of the fertile fronds are the shield fronds. These round, hard plate-like leaves are only produced during certain times of the year but will remain on the plant year round.

Platycerium hillii grow as epiphytes in trees and are able to form large specimens over time.