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The Ant Plant, primarily species from the genera Myrmecodia and Hydnophytum, is an epiphytic plant (meaning it grows on other trees) famous for its highly modified, swollen base called a caudex or tuber. These plants belong to the coffee family (Rubiaceae). In the wild, this caudex is hollow and chambered, serving as a naturally-formed "ant house."
Ant Plants are native to the warm, tropical forests of Southeast Asia (including Malaysia, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea) and Northern Australia. They cling to tree trunks and branches in the forest canopy.
While your Ant Plant possesses the unique caudex structure, it will not attract or require ants to thrive indoors. The hollow chambers will remain empty, and you will provide its necessary nutrients through fertilizer.
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Prefers bright, indirect light.
Water thoroughly when the top inch of the soil feels dry. Crucially, avoid overwatering and keep the swollen caudex itself dry to prevent rot.
Since they are epiphytes, they require a very airy, fast-draining substrate. An orchid mix (bark, perlite, charcoal) or a cacti/succulent mix with added orchid bark is ideal.
It prefers temperatures between 60°F and 80°F (15°C to 27°C).
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USDA Zone 9-12
USDA Zone 9b: to -3.8 °C (25 °F)
USDA Zone 10a: to -1.1 °C (30 °F)
USDA Zone 10b: to 1.7 °C (35 °F)
USDA Zone 11: above 4.5 °C (40 °F)
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We ship all year round, if your area is cold (under 40 degree), please consider purchasing a Heat Pack to add to your order.