About
Hydnophytum tetrapterum is a four-winged ant plant from tropical Southeast Asia, producing a swollen, hollow, ant-inhabited base with four distinct wings or ribs and glossy leaves. A fascinating botanical curiosity for a warm, humid greenhouse.
About the genus
Hydnophytum are epiphytic plants from tropical Southeast Asia and the Pacific with a large, swollen, ant-inhabited base and simple leaves with small, white, tubular flowers. Fascinating botanical curiosities grown in warm, humid greenhouses.
Growing conditions
SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectNorth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants
Native toE USA
ToxicitySkin allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets (dogs, cats): Harmful if eaten. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationGrow in any moist but well-drained soil in partial shade or grow in sun if soil remains reliably moist. Improve chalky soils with organic matter to support good growth. See shrubby hydrangea cultivation for further advice
PruningPruning group 4
PropagationPropagate by softwood cuttings in early summer or hardwood cuttings in winter
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids, capsid bug, hydrangea scale and vine weevil
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to a leaf spot, grey moulds, powdery mildews and honey fungus