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Lecanopteris luzonensis 'Ant Fern'

Lecanopteris luzonensis 'Ant Fern'

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Lecanopteris luzonensis—commonly called the Luzon ant fern—is an epiphytic fern native to the island of Luzon in the Philippines. It features a swollen, hollow rhizome (caudex) that often houses ants, offering both shelter for insects and protective, nutrient-rich benefits for the fern.

This fern can grow vertically up to 45 cm in height, with its solid rhizome forming a base that may reach around 30 cm in diameter. Young rhizomes are often greenish and covered in fine hairs that darken and harden as the plant matures.

Care Tips:

  • Light: Bright filtered light is ideal. Morning sun is great; avoid intense direct sunlight.

  • Water & Moisture: Water every 5–7 days, or when the top inch of medium dries out. Avoid letting the rhizome sit in water.

  • Temperature & Warmth: Thrives in slightly warmer environments, but not scorching heat—typical tropical warmth works best.

  • Substrate & Mounting: Use a mix of sphagnum moss and orchid/kiwi bark. Mounting is encouraged—just avoid burying the rhizome.

  • Ant Symbiosis: Ants form a natural mutualistic relationship with the fern in the wild, but cultivation doesn't require them.

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