Hydnophytum formicarum is an epiphytic myrmecophyte subshrub with succulent tubers associated in its growth with certain species of ants. The tuber contains within a complex labyrinth of chambers inhabited by ants colonies, with entrance holes for ants over the surface. As soon as the young plants develop a stem, the ants gnaw at the base of this, and the irritation produced causes the stem to swell; the ants continuing to irritate and excavate the swelling, it assumes a globular form, and may become even larger than a man's head. The walls of these chambers and the whole mass of the inflated stem retain their vitality and thrive, continuing to increase in size with growth. It appears that this curious gall-like tumour on the stem has become a normal condition of the plants, which cannot thrive without the ants. The ants provide the plant with a source of macronutrients through their debris. Ants likewise provide defense for the plant and prevent tissue damage, swarming to defend their home if disturbed.
Ant Plant Care
Hydrophytum Formicarum
Other names: Maze Plant
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Humidity
Normal
Lighting
Part Sun
Difficulty
Medium
How to Care for the Plant
Water
The plants are watered when the mix is just barely moist. If humidity is high, plants can be mounted on cork bark plaques for a more natural appearance.
Sunlight
bright light, though some protection from mid-day sun may be warranted
Soil
It is possible to grow them in a mix of peat and perlite, but an open orchids substrate (sphagnum moss, chopped fir bark, and perlite) seems the best combination.
Temperature
They needs warm temperatures all year round
Popularity
17 people already have this plant 4 people have added this plant to their wishlists
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