Lecanopteris celebica 'Ant Fern'

Lecanopteris celebica is an epiphytic ant fern native to Sulawesi (formerly Celebes), Indonesia, thriving as a canopy-dweller attached to tree trunks or branches. It features hollow, thickened rhizomes that develop internal cavities as they mature—creating natural shelters for ants.

Features:

• Ant Symbiosis: The fern forms a facultative mutualism with ants. While ants benefit from secure nesting inside the fern's rhizomes, the fern gains protection and additional nutrients from ant activity.

• Growth Form: Typically grows epiphytically in humid tropical forests, developing clusters of rhizomes up to about 3 inches (7.5 cm) in diameter, with foliage reaching around 12 inches long.

• Cultivation Ease: Despite its exotic origin, it adapts well in cultivation—even without ants, making it popular among exotic plant enthusiasts.

Care Tips:

• Light: Provide bright, indirect to semi-shade lighting. Avoid direct sun to prevent leaf damage.

• Humidity & Watering:

  • Keep humidity high—60%–90% during the day, and 70%–90% at night.

  • Water only when the substrate is fully dry to avoid rhizome rot.

• Temperature: Ideal temperatures are around 25 °C, with a safe range of 10 °C to 35 °C.

• Airflow & Substrate:

  • Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.

  • Use epiphytic-friendly mixes such as orchid bark, coarse sphagnum, or tree fern fiber. Mounting on bark or cork is highly effective.

• Feeding & Maintenance:

  • Fertilize lightly during the growing season.

  • Repot or refresh substrate after approximately one year.

• Optional Ants: Though ants are beneficial in nature, the plant thrives well without them in cultivation.