Ant fern species 'Lecanopteris celebica'

In its natural setting, Lecanopteris celebica has a mutually dependent or symbiotic relationship with different types of ants. Plants derive nutritional benefit from food sources that ants bring into the rhizome in return for shelter. However, when cultivated as a house plant, Lecanopteris celebica does not need ants. While a plant is still young, its rhizome is solid (without cavities), but as it matures, openings start to form, creating a hollow internal space that can be used by ants. In the wild, Lecanopteris celebica grows on the Indonesian island of Sulawesi. This type of ant fern is an epiphyte meaning it grows on other plants, usually trees. Lecanopteris celebica does not produce flowers but like other types of fern, reproduces by means of spores which form on the undersides of its leaves. The plants supplied by Araflora are of a manageable size.

Lecanopteris celebica prefers a high temperature and a high level of humidity. It also flourishes if growing conditions are less than ideal. It needs good air circulation and plenty of light, but should never be exposed to direct sunlight. The ideal temperature for Lecanopteris celebica is around 25⁰ C and certainly no lower than 10⁰ C or higher than 35⁰ C. The best level of humidity is 80%. This ant fern should be watered only when the substrate has dried out completely to prevent the rhizome from rotting. Orchid bark mix is a good growing medium. Ant ferns respond well to being fed with fertiliser.