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The Rooted Plant Shop

Hydnophe Papuanum “Mase Plant” 4”

Hydnophe Papuanum “Mase Plant” 4”

$18.00 USD
$18.00 USD
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Shipping calculated at checkout.

Each plant is unique. Size, shape, fullness, and variegation will vary.

Hydnophytum papuanum, commonly called ant plant, is an epiphytic plant native to Papua New Guinea known for its swollen, bulb-like base (caudex) and glossy green leaves that grow from the top. What makes this plant special is its symbiotic structure—the hollow caudex naturally forms chambers that, in the wild, house ants, making it a unique, sculptural plant with a living ecosystem function.

Light drives both leaf growth and how firm the caudex stays. Place it in an east or south-facing window where it gets bright, consistent light without direct sun sitting on the plant. Under grow lights, use 5000K–6500K placed 10–14 inches from the top of the plant. In lower light, growth slows and the leaves become smaller. Strong, even light keeps the plant fuller and supports a healthier, more developed caudex.

Watering should be controlled and slightly on the drier side with excellent airflow. Allow the growing medium to dry out most of the way between waterings, then water thoroughly and let it drain, using a very airy mix of orchid bark, perlite, and minimal soil. Avoid keeping the caudex constantly wet. If the base softens, the plant is staying too wet. If leaves begin to thin or drop while the plant is dry, it’s ready for water. This plant prefers stability—sudden changes in moisture or environment can stress both the foliage and the caudex.

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Shipping Protection

I love how it really protects your plants. Mel really takes the time to make sure that they’re shipped great

Mark K Wong
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I love the smaller plant sizes because I love watching them grow. The key to that is a strong root system and Mel definitely came through with a great plant with a good root system!

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This may be the cutest plants I have ever received! It's adorable. The plant was packaged extremely well and had no shipping damage. It's also very healthy and happy. I'm very happy with this purchase and would recommend buying from this shop.

Laura Lejzerowicz
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A great little plant! Arrived well packed and very healthy. It's absolutely adorable. I'd highly recommend buying from this shop. It's obvious the plants are well cared for.

Laura Lejzerowicz
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Everything came perfectly packed

Everything came perfectly packed and damage free!! So so beautiful! Went beyond my expectations

Crystal Williams

Plant is great and was sent with such care as usual! Thanks

Jeralyn
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Amazing as always

Everything from Mel and team always shows up perfect. The plants are beautiful!

Shaun Wood
Pinguicula 3 Pack

Beautiful and Healthy Philo Micans:
This is my second order from the rooted plant shop. My first order came quickly, packaged well and that plant has never given me any issues. That is why I ordered again and this experience was no different. I check her website often to see if she has any of my wishlist plants because if I can get them from her shop i know I’m getting a healthy plant and I fuss free experience.

Jessica
Beautiful and healthy Philo Micans

This is my second order from the rooted plant shop. My first order came quickly, packaged well and that plant has never given me any issues. That is why I ordered again and this experience was no different. I check her website often to see if she has any of my wishlist plants because if I can get them from her shop i know I’m getting a healthy plant and I fuss free experience.

Jessica
Philodendron Mican 4”
Plants arrived in excellent condition

Plants arrived in excellent condition.

Anonymous
String of Turtles

I ordered 2 String of Turtles. They arrived packaged perfectly. Would recommend to any Plant Lover out there. 100%

Kaly Smith

Arrived in perfect condition with a new leaf coming in :). I’d give ten stars if I could, for this made my whole week. Thank you so much!!!

Nicole J.

Nicole
Alocasia-Black Velvet 4”
Good Planty Experience

Shipping was fast, plants arrived healthy and looking beautiful

Sara Mueller