PlantFiles: Platycerium Fern, Staghorn Fern
Platycerium ellisii

Lived through 2006-07 winter freeze in my area (Sacramento, California). However, it was under a covered patio and had no direct contact with freezing water or frost. It was however, subject to cold breezes and temperatures as low as 26 degrees, and is just fine now. It lost maybe a leaf or two, but otherwise came through unscathed. I have it in a moss-lined cage which is flat on one side so as to hang against the wall. I water it once it has completely dried out (once a week or less). I take it down from the wall and soak it in a tub of water for about an hour, and it's good to go. It also enjoys a moist banana peel once in awhile, draped about its' base and tucked under it's folds. All in all a really magnificent plant!

This is fairly rare species in cultivation, and somewhat tricky to grow if grown in a climate very different from Madagascar (where it's from). Watering carelessly can often lead to rotting of this species, though underwatering can also be a problem (though it is somewhat drought tolerant). Some recommend letting it dry out completely between waterings and then drop into a pond for an hour, and let dry out again. Not all use this method, and some have success with misting and more routine watering styles.