Biophytum sp. ‘Ecuador’

Biophytum sp. ‘Ecuador’ is a miniature terrarium plant with the habit of a tiny palm, forming a dense rosette of slender petioles topped with feathery leaves. In a well designed terrarium it looks like a small tree that immediately draws the eye to the foreground of the layout. Its delicate structure, compact size and unusual growth form make it perfect for micro terrariums, vivariums with amphibians and “jungle floor” style displays.

Miniature “palm” from Ecuador

In the wild, Biophytum sp. ‘Ecuador’ inhabits humid sites in the tropical forests of Ecuador in South America, often in places with diffused light – along paths, at the edges of thickets or between stones and roots. In a terrarium it looks best planted singly or in small groups in the foreground or on small raised areas built from stones or roots. Its palm like silhouette contrasts nicely with large leaved plants and creeping mosses, adding lightness and a three dimensional feel to the scape.

Leaf movement and a “living micro landscape”

The leaves of Biophytum sp. ‘Ecuador’ react to environmental conditions – when the light level drops or at night they may fold up, giving the plant a dynamic, “living” character. In a stable, humid environment it quickly produces new leaves, thickens the rosette and forms a small clump. Thanks to this, it works very well in layouts where you want to create the impression of a natural, fine undergrowth of a tropical forest, especially when observed from close range.

Requirements and terrarium cultivation

Biophytum has a delicate root system and does not like extremes – neither drought nor constantly waterlogged substrate. It grows best in a fine grained, moist but well drained mix (for example soil + sand + perlite). High air humidity helps to keep the leaves firm, but it is important that water does not stand for long in the center of the rosette.
IMPORTANT: do not plant too deep and avoid frequent, aggressive repotting – the plant does not tolerate root damage well. Stable, moderately moist substrate and good air circulation are key to maintaining healthy foliage.

Biophytum sp. ‘Ecuador’ – terrarium cultivation conditions:

• Fine grained, moist, well drained substrate (for example leaf mold soil with added sand/perlite)
• High air humidity (around 70-90 percent) with gentle air movement
• Daytime temperature in the range of about 22-26°C
• Bright, diffused light; avoid long periods of direct sun
• Best position: foreground or midground of the layout, with good visibility