Myrmecodia tuberosa
ant plant
An epiphytic plant with a swollen, semi-succulent stem (known as a caudex), which is sometimes ridged or spiny. This is made up of cavities or tunnels that evolved in its native environment to host colonies of ants. Leathery, elliptic green leaves are held on pale fleshy stalks and often crowded around the tip of the stem. Small white flowers are produced directly from the main stem, followed by fleshy orange-red berries
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
10–20 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | White | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | Orange Red | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H1ABotanical details
- Family
- Rubiaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Genus
A small genus of tropical forest epiphytes which grow on branches in the canopy, with swollen, tuberous succulent-like stems and thick, glossy green foliage. They get their name 'ant-plants' from a mutual relationship they have with the ants where they provide food and shelter for the ants, and in return the ants provide nutrients via their waste for the plants
- Name status
Unresolved
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in an open, free draining medium such as orchid bark, or mounted on cork; plants are prone to root rot in poor drainage. Position in bright filtered light with protection from hot sun and maintain high humidity; may benefit from occasional misting with rainwater
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown as soon as ripe
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Houseplants
- Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
May be susceptible to scale insects, mealybugs and red spider mite
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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