Name: Elaphoglossum lanceolatum (L.) Keyserl.
Etymology:
The genus name Elaphoglossum is derived from the Greek words elaphos ("deer") and glossa ("tongue"), describing the simple, tongue-shaped fronds typical of many species. The specific epithet lanceolatum derives from the Latin lanceolatus and means "lanceolate", referring to the narrow, tapering shape of the leaf blades.
Synonyms:

• Pteris lanceolata L. (1753) – basionym
• Taenitis lanceolata (L.) Kaulf. (1824)
• Pteropsis lanceolata (L.) Desv. (1827)
• Paltonium lanceolatum (L.) C.Presl (1836)
• Drymoglossum lanceolatum (L.) J.Sm. (1841)
• Dicranoglossum lanceolatum (L.) Fée (1852)
• Cheilogramme lanceolata (L.) Underw. (1906)
• Oetosis lanceolata (L.) Kuntze (1891)

First description:
The basionym Pteris lanceolata was published in 1753 by Carl von Linné in Species Plantarum. Heinrich von Keyserling transferred the species to the genus Elaphoglossum in 1873 and published the combination now known today, Elaphoglossum lanceolatum (L.) Keyserl. According to current taxonomic opinion, this name is listed by several botanical databases as a synonym of Pleopeltis marginata.
Origin / Distribution:
The species is native to tropical America and is distributed from southern Mexico through Central America and the Caribbean to northern South America. It occurs mainly in permanently moist forest areas and inhabits both lowland rainforests and montane cloud forests.
Location / Habitat:
Elaphoglossum lanceolatum grows predominantly epiphytically on moss-covered tree trunks and large branches, and more rarely lithophytically on permanently moist rocks. Its natural habitat is characterized by high humidity, regular rainfall, good air circulation, and filtered light beneath the closed canopy of tropical forests.
Description & Notes:
Elaphoglossum lanceolatum is an extraordinary tropical fern with a creeping rhizome and simple, undivided fronds, which differ significantly from the finely pinnate leaves of most fern species. The narrow, lanceolate leaf blades have a firm, leathery texture and appear in a rich green with a slightly glossy surface, depending on their origin and light conditions. Well-established plants develop a compact, elegant growth form due to the closely spaced fronds, making the species particularly attractive for fern collections.

In cultivation, the species prefers conditions that come as close as possible to its natural habitat. A permanently moist but very airy environment supports the healthy development of the sensitive roots. It is particularly well suited for cultivation on cork bark, tree fern boards, or in a loose epiphytic substrate with a high proportion of sphagnum and coarse bark. Bright, indirect light, temperatures between 20 and 28 °C, and a humidity of at least 70% promote continuous growth. Due to its unusual growth form and the occasionally occurring subtle metallic sheen of the fronds, Elaphoglossum lanceolatum is considered one of the sought-after species among tropical fern enthusiasts.