Lecanopteris celebica

Originating from the high humidity of Sulawesi, Indonesia, Lecanopteris celebica (Ant Fern) is a unique and beautiful fern with lush, ornamental foliage. It is a small plant, typically growing between 2 and 5 ft tall and is an interesting conversation piece for any garden. As a tropical epiphyte, it requires warm temperatures, high humidity, and access to partial shade or even semi-shade - and it loves to live in trees or on logs.

This unique fern has an interesting addition to its anatomy, that being hollow caudexs which ants use to live and thrive in. These ants are considered symbiotic to the plant and help with pollinating, eating and removing pests, and providing nutrients to the soil.

The Lecanopteris celebica is hardy in zones 9-11, making it suitable to be grown outdoors in many areas. Proper care is important, though. This plant must be kept moist and heavily misted to replicate its natural environment. If you live in an area with a cooler climate, you can still grow it in a pot indoors or outdoors. Some protection must be provided to shield it from the cold, and a humidifier can help replicate the humidity of its native environment. It should be kept away from direct sunlight and its soil should be changed about once a year.

Overall, if you live in the proper climate, or have the resources to provide proper care and protection from the cold, this unique and vibrant fern is a great addition to any garden or indoor setup. Its unique caudex is sure to be a conversation starter, and with proper care and attention, it's sure to bring a slice of tropical paradise to your living space.