Family: Polypodiaceae

Origin, Description & Uses:
Platycerium bifurcatum, commonly known as common staghorn fern or elkhorn fern, is an epiphytic fern native from Java through parts of Southeast Asia to New Caledonia. This striking ornamental fern is recognized for its large antler-like fronds and rounded basal fronds that attach to trees or mounting surfaces. It is widely grown in tropical and subtropical landscapes as a decorative hanging plant or mounted specimen and is prized for its unusual appearance and ability to thrive in humid, shaded environments. In Hawai‘i, it has become naturalized on Kaua‘i, O‘ahu, Maui, and Hawai‘i Island.

Risks & Threats:
In Hawai‘i, common staghorn fern is naturalized and does possess traits that are cause for concern. The species reproduces by spores and can spread into moist forest habitats where it may establish on trees and other surfaces. While it is mainly cultivated as an ornamental and is not currently regarded as a highly aggressive invasive species, its ability to persist and spread in natural areas warrants continued monitoring. Ongoing evaluation is needed to better understand its ecological impacts, and caution is recommended when planting near native forests and sensitive ecosystems to help ensure that it will not negatively impact Hawai‘i over time.

High Risk Traits:

• Elevation range exceeds 1000 m, demonstrating environmental versatility
  
• Thrives in tropical climates
  
• Naturalized on Oahu, Maui and Hawaii (Hawaiian Islands), Florida, and possibly New Zealand
  
• Considered a potential environmental weed in Florida
  
• May be unpalatable to browsing animals
  
• Shade-tolerant
  
• An epiphyte (could compete with native epiphytic species)
  
• Reproduces by spores and vegetatively by “pups”
  
• Spores dispersed by wind and intentionally cultivated by people
  
• Prolific spore production

Low Risk Traits:

• Despite naturalization, no negative impacts reported to date
  
• Unarmed (no spines, thorns, or burrs)
  
• Non-toxic
  
• Ornamental
  
• Reaches maturity in 4+ years
  
• Spores may lose viability in <1 year (longevity in natural environment undocumented)