WYSIWYG = What You See Is What You Get

Platycerium ‘Mount Lewis’
Common names: Staghorn Fern, Elkhorn Fern
Scientific name: Platycerium sp. ‘Mount Lewis’
(Australian hybrid / locality cultivar – exact parentage not formally confirmed)

Overview
Platycerium ‘Mount Lewis’ is a striking mount-grown staghorn fern prized for its sculptural antler fronds and layered shield fronds. It is tougher than it looks, forgiving once established, and ideal for mounted displays, shaded patios, bright bathrooms, and protected outdoor spaces. This is a statement plant—grown for form, not flowers.
Quick Tips
🌿 Mount, don’t pot for best results
💨 Loves airflow—stagnant air is its enemy
🚿 Soak thoroughly, then let dry slightly
☀️ Bright light, no harsh midday sun
❌ Never bury the shield frond
Key Features
Mature size: 60–100 cm across (with age)
Growth rate: Moderate
Growth habit: Epiphytic, clumping, shield + antler fronds
Display value: Architectural, dramatic, living wall appeal
Suitable Environments
Open terrarium (large, well-ventilated)
Shaded patio or veranda
Bright indoor space near a window
Mounted feature wall (indoor or protected outdoor)
Bathroom with good light and airflow
❌ Not suitable for closed terrariums or submerged/aquatic use.
Mounting / Substrate
Preferred:
Cork bark, hardwood slab, tree fern plaque
Mounting medium (behind plant):
Long-fiber sphagnum moss (lightly packed)
Optional: small amount of bark chips for airflow
⚠️ Never cover the shield frond—it must remain exposed.
Light
Bright, filtered light
Morning sun acceptable
Avoid strong midday or afternoon sun (leaf scorch risk)
Indoors: Bright east- or north-facing window is ideal.
Temperature
Ultimate minimum: 10 °C
Ultimate maximum: 35 °C
Ideal range: 18–28 °C
Short cold spells are tolerated if dry, but frost will kill the plant.
Humidity
Tolerance: 40–90%
Ideal: 60–80%
Higher humidity improves frond size and colour, but airflow is essential.
Watering
Water by soaking the mount (or heavy spray)
Allow to drain completely
Frequency:
Summer: 2–4× per week (depending on heat and airflow)
Winter: 1× per week or less
🚫 Do not keep constantly wet—root rot is fatal.
Feeding
Light feeder
Apply diluted, balanced fertiliser during active growth
Feed once every 3–4 weeks in spring and summer
Flush with plain water occasionally to prevent salt buildup
(If using slow-release nutrition, keep it minimal and well away from the crown.)
Propagation
By division of mature clumps only
Not reliably propagated from spores for home growers
Division should only be done on well-established plants
Common Problems
Black or mushy base: Overwatering / poor airflow
Brown crispy tips: Too dry or too much sun
No new growth: Too dark or nutrient starvation
Shield frond browning: Normal with age—do not remove
Final Notes
Platycerium ‘Mount Lewis’ rewards patience. The older it gets, the better it looks. Treat it like a living sculpture: give it light, air, and respect its rhythm—and it will outlive most houseplants.