Menu
Log in
site_logo

Bau ulusarikeiensis (S.Y.Wong) S.Y.Wong & P.C.Boyce

Introduction & Overview

Common and Scientific Names

  • Scientific Name: Bau ulusarikeiensis (S.Y. Wong) S.Y. Wong & P.C. Boyce
  • Common Name: Has no widely accepted common name

Quick Facts

  • Origin: Native to the tropical regions of Southeast Asia, particularly Malaysia and Indonesia
  • Features: Known for its vibrant, patterned leaves and distinctive inflorescence. Thrives in humid, tropical environments

Taxonomy & Classification

  • Genus: Bau
  • Botanical Background: Described and named by botanists S.Y. Wong and P.C. Boyce. It was noted for its unique features that differentiated it from other members of the Bau genus.

Natural Habitat & Distribution

  • Geographical Range: Native to the lowland and montane rainforests of Malaysia and Indonesia, particularly in regions with high humidity and consistent rainfall.
  • Environment: Grows in tropical, high-humidity environments with well-drained, slightly acidic soils. Requires moderate to high levels of rainfall and thrives in areas with filtered light under the canopy of larger trees

Morphological Characteristics

Leaves

  • Large, glossy, and elongated
  • Striking veins
  • Exhibit a rich green coloration with occasional mottling or variegation

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

  • Spathe is typically green with a yellowish tint at its base
  • Spadix is slender and often has a subtle fragrance that aids in pollination by insects
  • Pollination mechanisms remain poorly understood but are thought to involve typical insect activity

Growth Habit

  • Primarily terrestrial but may exhibit semi-epiphytic tendencies in some environments
  • Has a rhizomatic growth habit, producing new shoots from an underground rhizome

Cultivation & Care

Light Requirements

  • Prefers bright, indirect light
  • Direct sunlight may scorch the leaves

Watering & Humidity

  • Requires consistently moist soil but should not be waterlogged
  • High humidity (60%+) is ideal
  • Regular misting can help maintain optimal conditions

Soil & Potting Mix

  • A well-draining, acidic potting mix
  • Mixture of peat, perlite, and orchid bark provides an excellent medium
  • Containers should have good drainage

Temperature & Fertilizer

  • Ideal temperature range is 22-28°C (72-82°F)
  • Fertilizing every 4-6 weeks during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer ensures healthy growth

Propagation Methods

Division

  • Rhizome division
  • Each division should include at least one healthy growth node

Stem Cuttings (if applicable)

  • Cuttings are less commonly successful

Seeds

  • Less common
  • Require warm, moist conditions and can take several weeks to germinate

Common Pests & Diseases

Typical Issues

  • Spider mites and mealybugs
  • Root rot can occur in overly moist conditions

Treatment Recommendations

  • For pest control, use insecticidal soap or neem oil
  • Root rot can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage and reducing watering frequency during cooler months

Notable Traits & Uses

  • Does not have widespread cultural or folkloric significance but is of ecological interest as part of the rich biodiversity in Southeast Asia's rainforests
  • Prized specimen for collectors of rare aroids due to its striking foliage and unique growth form
  • Sought after for decorative purposes in tropical-themed gardens and as a houseplant in appropriate climates

Conservation & Availability

Wild Population Status

  • No immediate threat to the species' population, though deforestation in its native regions poses a long-term risk
  • Conservation efforts are not as widely documented for this specific species

Market Availability

  • Considered rare in cultivation
  • Not listed as endangered but is not commonly found in mainstream markets

References & Resources

Further Reading

Powered by Wild Apricot Membership Software
Document