One of the world’s longest stick insects, calm in nature and impressive in size.
 
Phryganistria heusii yentuensis is a spectacular giant stick insect from the forests of northern Vietnam, where it lives high in the canopy and blends perfectly into branches and vines. This subspecies is famous for its extraordinary length, with females capable of reaching 30 cm or more, making it one of the longest insects ever recorded. Despite their size, these insects are gentle, slow‑moving, and surprisingly easy to handle, making them a favourite among keepers who enjoy the “giant phasmid” experience.
 
In the wild, they inhabit humid, leafy forest habitats, feeding on a variety of broad‑leaved plants. This translates well into captivity: they readily accept bramble, raspberry, rose, and other common Rosaceae, making them straightforward to maintain year‑round. Their growth is steady and predictable, with nymphs developing into adults over several months. Females lay large, seed‑like eggs that resemble plant matter on the forest floor — a natural camouflage strategy that works just as well in captivity.
 
Although impressive and highly sought after, P. heusii yentuensis remains uncommon in the hobby. Its large size means it requires a tall enclosure with good airflow, and its eggs take time to hatch, which slows down captive production. For keepers who can provide the space, however, it is a rewarding and surprisingly undemanding species. Its calm temperament, impressive scale, and natural beauty make it a standout display insect for both enthusiasts and educational collections.