Lecanopteris balgooyi 'Ant Fern'

Lecanopteris balgooyi is native to Central Sulawesi, Indonesia, and grows as an epiphyte, typically found attached to tree trunks or branches. In the genus Lecanopteris, L. balgooyi belongs to the “green rhizome” group—one of several species with thickened, hollow rhizomes inhabited by ants.

Features:

• Rhizomes are hollow and covered with few scales, but often display unique spines that make the plant visually striking.

• It features the genus-typical symbiotic adaptation: ants can nest within its hollowed rhizomes, while the fern benefits from nutrient input and protection.

• L. balgooyi is one of six Lecanopteris species endemic to Sulawesi, highlighting its rarity and ecological specificity.

Care Tips:

• Light: Provide bright, filtered light—similar to a tropical understory environment. Avoid strong direct midday sunlight.

• Humidity & Watering: Maintain moderate to high humidity (around 50–60%). Keep the substrate moist but well-draining to prevent rot.

• Temperature: Mimic tropical conditions—keep daytime temps around 21–29 °C and nights between 18–24 °C. Avoid drops below 15 °C.

• Substrate & Mounting: Use airy, epiphytic-friendly mixes like orchid bark, perlite, sphagnum, or tree fern fiber. Mounting on cork or tree fern slabs is also highly effective.

• Watering Method: Let the top inch of growing medium dry slightly between waterings, then thoroughly water until drainage.

• Symbiosis Note: Although it naturally houses ants, L. balgooyi can be grown successfully without them—consider replicating nutrient input if ants are absent.