Lecanopteris linguiformis is a fascinating “ant‑fern” belonging to the genus Lecanopteris, native to wet tropical forests across Malaysia and the southwest Pacific (including New Guinea, Borneo, and Fiji).
Unlike some ant‑ferns that form huge hollow rhizomes, L. linguiformis has a more modest rhizome that still functions as a home for ants in the wild—but the plant can be successfully grown without ants in cultivation.
It bears leathery fronds emerging from the rhizome and is prized for its unusual growth habit and textural interest—excellent for terrariums or mounted cultivation.

Short Care Guide

Light: Provide bright, indirect light — avoid harsh midday sun. A location with filtered light early or late in the day works well.
Temperature: Warm‑to‑intermediate conditions are best: daytime around 20‑30 °C (68‑86 °F); avoid sustained drops much below ~15 °C (59 °F).
Humidity & Airflow: Aim for high humidity (≈ 60‑80%) with good air circulation. Fresh air around the rhizome and fronds helps prevent rot.
Watering & Substrate:

• Best grown mounted on cork, tree‑fern board or similar, with a light cushion of sphagnum or similar moisture‑retentive, airy substrate.

• If potted, use a very open, well‑draining mix (coarse bark + sphagnum + perlite) and allow slight drying between waterings. Avoid constantly soggy conditions—especially around the rhizome.
  Fertilising: Use a diluted, balanced liquid fertiliser during active growth (for example every few weeks) to mimic the nutrient enrichment that wild ants provide. One seller notes “slow‑release every 3 months” as adequate.
  Notes:

• The rhizome is the showpiece: keep it visible rather than burying it in substrate.

• While the wild form grows with ants, you do not need ants for cultivation—just maintain suitable moisture, warmth, and airflow.

• Because this species naturally grows epiphytically, avoid compacting the substrate around the rhizome roots.