Habitat and Ecology
​Elaphoglossum eximium is a magnificent, rhizomatous epiphytic or lithophytic fern native to Central and South America, with a wide distribution ranging from Mexico (Veracruz, Oaxaca) to Peru (including Central America, Colombia, and Ecuador). It occurs principally in wet montane cloud forests and tropical lower montane rainforests at elevations typically above 500 metres. It often grows in a striking basket-like habit on mossy tree trunks, rock faces, and steep embankments, thriving in the perpetually misty, highly humid, and cool-intermediate environment of the cloud forest.
​Description
​This fern is a prized, large perennial member of the Elaphoglossum (Stag's Tongue Fern) genus, growing from a creeping rhizome covered in scales. It produces conspicuous, simple, undivided dimorphic fronds (leaves) that are often tufted or closely spaced:
​Sterile Fronds: These are the large, showy fronds, typically elliptic or oblong-lanceolate, and can be quite substantial. The fronds are coriaceous (leathery) and usually have a clean, dark green colour.
​Fertile Fronds: These are produced separately on longer stalks, are narrower and smaller than the sterile fronds, and bear a continuous rust-coloured spore surface (acrostichoid sori) on the underside.
​The species name eximium means 'exceptional' or 'distinguished', referring to the plant's overall impressive size and growth habit within its genus.
​Cultivation
​Elaphoglossum eximium is a cool-intermediate growing epiphyte that requires specific and stable conditions, making it best suited for a cool greenhouse or humid cabinet in the UK. It requires medium to bright indirect light; filtered light is essential, and direct sun must be avoided. It grows well mounted on cork or tree fern or potted in a highly porous, moisture-retentive, soilless mix such as sphagnum moss and fine bark. The medium must be kept consistently moist year-round—it is intolerant of drying out—but must drain quickly to prevent rot.
​Optimal Daytime Temperature: 18-25^{\circ}\text{C} (64-77^{\circ}\text{F})
​Optimal Nighttime Temperature: Cool nights are highly beneficial, ideally 13-18^{\circ}\text{C} (55-64^{\circ}\text{F}).
​High humidity (60%+) and good air circulation are mandatory. Water frequently with tepid, soft water (rainwater is preferred). Feed monthly during the growing season with a highly dilute liquid fertiliser.
​Unique Features
​This fern is valued for its large size and robust, basket-like growth habit, which provides striking architectural interest, especially when mounted. Its ability to grow well into a substantial specimen, combined with its preference for cool-intermediate conditions, makes it a rewarding choice for the enthusiast seeking large-leaved tropical ferns for a stable, high-humidity environment.
​Specifications
​Plant Size: (user input)
​Plant Family: Dryopteridaceae (or Polypodiaceae)
​Plant Passport: A Elaphoglossum eximium B 140084 C [user input] D GB
​To learn about the successful cultivation of similar cloud forest ferns, watch this video: Elaphoglossum metallicum Houseplant Care — 307 of 365.