Platycerium coronarium (Konig) Desv.

Etymology Genus From Greek, platys=broad, keras=horn, referring to the antler-like mature leaves
Species Crown, referring to the nest-fronds
Family Polypodiaceae
Synonyms Osmunda coronaria Konig, Alcicornium coronarium (Konig) Underw.
Common Names Staghorn Fern
Status Native: Common
Form Epiphyte
Native Distribution Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, West and Central Malesia

Diagnostics:

Platycerium coronarium is an epiphytic fern that is found in our inland nature reserves. It has two distinct frond types. The nest-leaves are infertile and upright, and serves to capture leaf litter. The fertile leaves hang downwards and branches dichotomously.


A large clump of Staghorn Fern along Mandai Track 7 (2025).

Closeup of young infertile frond.

Closeup of mature infertile frond.

Fertile frond droops downwards.

Star-like hairs on the frond, characteristic of all in the genus.

Author: Siyang
Posted: 2025-09-26


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