• Lecanopteris crustacea is an epiphytic ant fern native to Peninsular Thailand, Malaysia, Sumatra, Borneo, and West Malesia. It typically grows in lowland tropical rainforests, often in association with the mass roots of Platycerium (staghorn ferns).
  • Lecanopteris crustacea is an epiphytic ant fern native to Peninsular Thailand, Malaysia, Sumatra, Borneo, and West Malesia. It typically grows in lowland tropical rainforests, often in association with the mass roots of Platycerium (staghorn ferns).
  • Lecanopteris crustacea is an epiphytic ant fern native to Peninsular Thailand, Malaysia, Sumatra, Borneo, and West Malesia. It typically grows in lowland tropical rainforests, often in association with the mass roots of Platycerium (staghorn ferns).
  • Lecanopteris crustacea is an epiphytic ant fern native to Peninsular Thailand, Malaysia, Sumatra, Borneo, and West Malesia. It typically grows in lowland tropical rainforests, often in association with the mass roots of Platycerium (staghorn ferns).
  • Lecanopteris crustacea is an epiphytic ant fern native to Peninsular Thailand, Malaysia, Sumatra, Borneo, and West Malesia. It typically grows in lowland tropical rainforests, often in association with the mass roots of Platycerium (staghorn ferns).
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Potato Ant Fern (Lecanopteris crustacea)

Potato Ant Fern (Lecanopteris crustacea)

$49.99 USD
$49.99 USD
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Lecanopteris crustacea is an epiphytic ant fern native to Peninsular Thailand, Malaysia, Sumatra, Borneo, and West Malesia. It typically grows in lowland tropical rainforests, often in association with the mass roots of Platycerium (staghorn ferns).

Features:

  • Hollow, scaled rhizomes: Its thickened rhizomes are hollow and covered densely with scales; these structures are inhabited by ants in the wild, forming a myrmecophytic relationship.

  • Flattened, spotted surface: The rhizome is notable for flattened profiles and distinctive red-brown speckles scattered across the surface.

  • Sturdy fronds: The fern produces robust fronds approximately 4–5 inches (10–12 cm) long, emerging from the growing tips.

Care Tips:

  • Light: Provide bright morning light or shaded afternoon conditions—simulate an understory environment.

  • Humidity & Airflow: High humidity combined with good air movement is essential. Avoid overly wet conditions around the rhizome.

  • Watering: Water once or twice a week, allowing the substrate to dry in between to prevent rot.

  • Temperature: Thrives in warm to intermediate temperatures—ideally around daytime 30–35 °C and nighttime 22–28 °C, though it can tolerate cooler (18–25 °C) conditions.

  • Mounting & Substrate: Best grown mounted on tree fern plaques or in airy mixes containing sphagnum; excellent drainage is vital.

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