• Lecanopteris pumila, commonly known as the Ant Fern, is a captivating epiphytic fern native to the tropical forests of Southeast Asia, including regions like Indonesia and Malaysia. This species is part of the Lecanopteris genus, renowned for its symbiotic relationship with ants.
  • Lecanopteris pumila, commonly known as the Ant Fern, is a captivating epiphytic fern native to the tropical forests of Southeast Asia, including regions like Indonesia and Malaysia. This species is part of the Lecanopteris genus, renowned for its symbiotic relationship with ants.
1 2

Begin With Plants

Lecanopteris pumila 'Ant Fern'

Lecanopteris pumila 'Ant Fern'

$99.99 USD
$99.99 USD
Sale Sold out
Shipping calculated at checkout.

Lecanopteris pumila, commonly known as the Ant Fern, is a captivating epiphytic fern native to the tropical forests of Southeast Asia, including regions like Indonesia and Malaysia. This species is part of the Lecanopteris genus, renowned for its symbiotic relationship with ants. In the wild, L. pumila forms hollow rhizomes that provide shelter for ants, creating a mutualistic partnership where the ants offer protection and nutrients to the fern, while the fern supplies the ants with a habitat. Interestingly, while this ant-fern relationship is prevalent in nature, L. pumila can thrive without ants in cultivation.

Notably, L. pumila is one of the smallest species among the ant ferns (Lecanopteris genus). Mature plants typically reach a height of about 15 inches (approximately 38 cm), making them well-suited for home cultivation.

Care Tips:

  • Light Requirements

    • Provide bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the fronds, so placing the fern in a location with filtered light is ideal.

  • Watering

    • Water the fern regularly to keep the substrate consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top layer of the growing medium to dry slightly between waterings.

  • Humidity

    • Maintain high humidity levels, ideally between 60% and 90%. This can be achieved by placing the fern in a humid environment or using a humidity tray.

  • Temperature

    • Ant ferns thrive in warm temperatures ranging from 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F).

  • Substrate

    • Use a well-draining mix of sphagnum moss and orchid bark. When repotting, ensure the rhizomes are not buried too deeply to prevent rot.

  • Air Circulation

    • Good airflow around the plant is essential to prevent fungal issues and promote healthy growth.



View full details