Antplant ‘Hydnophytum Papuanum XXL’

Hydnophytum papuanum is a tropical plant with an enlarged stem, also known as a caudex. Inside this caudex, an elaborate network of tunnels is created by the plant. In nature, this network of tunnels is home to an ant colony. The plant lives symbiotically with the ants, this type of plant is called a myrmecophyte. The ants provide the root system with nutrients and protect the plant from herbivory. In return, the plant provides the ants with shelter against the elements and predators. From the enlarged stem, several stalks containing opposite, rounded leaves. The leaves produce a thick layer of wax to protect them from dehydration. Hydnophytum papuanum produces small white flowers in between the leaves. When pollinated, the flowers form bright orange fruits. Propagation is mostly done by harvesting seeds. Germinate the seeds in a warm and moist environment.