Apoballis longicaulis (Ridl.) S.Y.Wong & P.C.Boyce

• Genus: Apoballis
• Botanical Background: Originally described as Schismatoglottis longicaulis by Ridley in 1902, it was transferred to Apoballis by Wong & Boyce in 2010.

• Geographical Range: Endemic to northern Sumatra, primarily in wet lowland to hill forests.
• Environment: Grows terrestrially in primary rainforests and along stream banks (rheophytic tendencies), at elevations of 50–1 500 m

Leaves

• Petiolate blades are lanceolate to elliptic 
• Entire margins, emerging in small clumps from a creeping rhizome

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

• Produced on a slender, wiry peduncle
• Spathe is narrowly cylindrical with a subtle constriction separating a lanceolate limb, enclosing a spadix with distinct female and male zones and a tapering appendix

Growth Habit

• Terrestrial, rhizomatous geophyte often forming colonies; occasionally found in fast‑flowing streams as a rheophyte

Light Requirements

• Bright, indirect light
• Tolerates moderate shade without leaf scorch

Watering & Humidity

• Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged
• Maintain high ambient humidity

Soil & Potting Mix

• Use a well‑draining, organic‑rich medium (e.g., bark‑leaf compost mix)

Temperature & Fertilizer

• Ideal range 18–28 °C
• Apply a balanced, diluted fertilizer monthly during active growth

Division and Cuttings

• Split rhizome clumps ensuring each section has buds and roots; replant promptly in fresh medium

Seeds

• Rare in cultivation; if available, sow fresh under warm, humid conditions for best germination

Typical Issues

• Spider mites and mealybugs
• Fungal root rot in poorly drained soils

Treatment Recommendations

• Isolate affected plants; apply neem oil or insecticidal soap
• Improve drainage; apply a systemic fungicide drench if root rot appears

• Pollen of Apoballis species is echinate (spiny), differing from the smooth pollen of related Schismatoglottis species

• Valued for its graceful, narrow foliage and suitability for terrariums, shaded patios or understory gardens

Wild Population Status

• Not yet assessed by IUCN; restricted range suggests monitoring may be warranted

Market Availability

• Occasionally offered by specialty aroid nurseries; rare in mainstream trade