4" Fern, Staghorn

Staghorn ferns are aptly named for their antler shaped fronds. Native to Java and Australian rainforests, these opportunists grab onto and grow on trees, collecting moisture and food from whatever falls on them. They form two kinds of fronds; the shield one is circular and swirls out from the center and molds onto and into the shape of whatever new home it's decided to live on. Each shield will expand larger than the last, with old ones converting to what looks like brown paper which it goes ahead and consumes for more energy while a fresh, new youngster overtops it.  Elderly shields can develop upright fingers reaching for the sky. From the center spot also emerge the actual fronds, long-fingered, antlery ones that point out then relax to hang down contentedly. Hanging fronds are often coated on the reverse with a thick dusting of cinnamon-hued spores. Staghorns can get huge, with new, little, wayward plants with their own shields and all sprouting off to the sides. They have been known to envelop and devour their wire baskets with that new growth and even metal shelves they have been set on. From a nice, tame, unassuming little baby in a pot, to a giant, wide-reaching spectacle and everything in between, there's a friendly Staghorn for you.