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Platycerium Wallichii Staghorn Fern 4"
Platycerium Wallichii Staghorn Fern 4"
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$110.00 CAD
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$110.00 CAD
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Platycerium wallichii - Indian Butterfly Staghorn
Aesthetic Appeal:
Known as the "Butterfly Staghorn" or "Indian Staghorn," this distinctive species showcases tall, spreading shield fronds with many rounded lobes along their upper edges that create a definite basket-like formation. The shield fronds may all turn brown while the fertile fronds remain green, creating a striking contrast. The fertile fronds have distinctively prominent veins on the upper side and their shape varies greatly in cultivation, with some specimens developing multiple lobes that become fan-like when mature. The overall appearance is characterized by wide fertile fronds that can form a curtain-like display, with some developing so wide they create a dramatic cascade in front of the shield fronds.
Care Requirements:
•Light: Bright, indirect light; avoid direct sunlight which can scorch the fronds
•Water: Difficult to maintain proper watering schedule; requires consistent moisture during growing season, complete dormancy period with minimal water
•Temperature: 60-100°F (15-38°C) - prefers warm, humid conditions with good air circulation
•Mounting: Humid greenhouse conditions preferred; excellent drainage essential with well-ventilated mounting
Special Notes:
Native to Thailand, Northern India, Burma (Myanmar), and Yunnan Province of China, P. wallichii is named after Nathaniel Wallich, Director of the Calcutta Botanical Garden in 1815. This species is notoriously difficult to grow in collections and often goes into dormancy, sometimes never emerging from it. In nature, this species experiences a definite wet and dry season, with dormancy occurring between November and April. The key to success appears to be understanding and respecting this natural dormancy cycle. Some growers keep the plant well-watered year-round to prevent dormancy, while others allow natural dormancy with minimal watering. P. wallichii growing in Thailand shares the same environment with P. holttumii in monsoon forests with definite wet and dry seasons. Roy Vail suggests that cool temperatures during dormancy may be important for successful cultivation. The species is considered one of the most challenging staghorns to maintain in cultivation, requiring more experience and specific environmental conditions. Spores are green and germinate quickly under very moist conditions, but sporelings require careful attention to prevent loss. The future of this species in cultivation likely depends more on successful spore propagation than on imports from the wild. This species belongs to the single-bud type and rarely produces offsets, making propagation challenging and increasing its value among collectors.
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