Hydnophytum moseleyanum Becc., still often sold under its synonym name Hydnophytum papuanum, is an epiphytic myrmecophyte. It is found in nature growing on trees in the tropical rain forests, also occupying mangrove trees. This plant forms a complex ecological relationships with the Philidris ants. The relationship is mutualistic. The epiphyte gets sustenance by absorbing nutrients from the detritus stored inside tree cavities by the ants, and the ants obtain honeydew secreted by scale insects attracted to the shoot tips of the host mangrove tree.
It is an unusual exclusively epiphytic plant that develop a chambered caudex (or broadened stem)at the base of their stems, that provides shelter for ants. The caudex is smooth reasonably large. In nature the ants live in it, and deposit waste which is beneficial to the plant. Technically they are called myrmecophytes which translates as ant-plants. The plant has slightly succulent leaves and makes long, thin stalks which will form a nice and compact whole if pruned. In the axil of the leaves small, subtle flowers can grow, which are followed by yellow-orange berries.
he name is derived from the Ancient Greek hydnon "tuber", and phyton "plant", after their appearance with their swollen succulent stems.
Hydnophytum moseleyanum
Hydnophytum moseleyanum is ca. 20 cm tall and comes in a 7 cm pot
