Myrmecodia tuberosa
Myrmecodia tuberosa
Ant-plant
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Taxonomy
Family Rubiaceae · Genus Myrmecodia
Description
Myrmecodia tuberosa, the ant-plant, is a quirky epiphytic caudex from Southeast Asian rainforests. Its swollen, honeycombed base forms natural chambers for ants in the wild (no ants required at home). Slow-growing but striking, it thrives warm, bright, and humid in a very airy mix.
Common Names
Ant-plantMyrmecodiaSarang Semut (Indonesia)
Context
nativeRegion
Lowland to hill rainforests of Southeast Asia and New Guinea (Malesia region), typically as an epiphyte.
usdaZones
11–12 (outdoors year-round); commonly grown indoors elsewhere.
companionPlants
Hoya, Dischidia, Platycerium (Staghorn Fern), Dendrobium orchids, Tillandsia
culturalUses
Grown as a curiosity for its ant-domatia caudex; in parts of Indonesia, ‘sarang semut’ (including M. tuberosa) is used in traditional herbal preparations.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright indirect light; gentle morning sun is fine. Avoid harsh midday sun. 10–12 hours under grow lights also works.
WateringWater thoroughly, then let the top 1–2 cm of mix dry. Keep slightly drier in cooler months. Never let the pot sit in water.
SoilVery airy epiphyte mix: orchid bark, perlite/pumice, a little sphagnum and charcoal. Slightly acidic (pH ~5.5–6.5).
FertilizerDilute, balanced feed (¼–½ strength) every 2–4 weeks in spring–summer; sparingly in fall–winter. Flush salts monthly.
HumidityPrefers high humidity, 60–80%, with good airflow.
TemperatureBest at 65–85°F (18–29°C). Avoid prolonged drops below 55°F (13°C).
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitEpiphytic, caudiciform shrub with a swollen, chambered tuber (caudex) and short branching shoots.
Mature SizeCaudex typically 5–15 cm across in cultivation (larger with age); overall spread 20–40 cm.
Growth RateSlow to moderate under warm, bright conditions.
BloomingTiny white flowers emerge from areoles on the caudex, followed by red to orange berries; can bloom sporadically year-round when warm.
DormancyNo true dormancy; slight slowdown in cooler, darker months.
Propagation
MethodsSeed, Division of offsets (rare in this species), Tissue culture (commercial)
DifficultyIntermediate to advanced (seed is most reliable).
Best SeasonSpring to summer for sowing seed or separating any offsets.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningMinimal. Remove dead shoots and spent fruit carefully. Do not cut into the caudex.
RepottingInfrequent—every 2–3 years or when crowded. Use a shallow or slotted pot; keep the caudex above the mix.
Pests & DiseasesWatch for mealybugs, scale, and spider mites. Overwatering can cause root/caudex rot; ensure airflow and fast drainage.
ToxicityGenerally considered non-toxic to pets and people; sap may irritate sensitive skin—handle with care.
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