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Bucephalandra kishii S.Y.Wong & P.C.Boyce

Introduction & Overview

Common and Scientific Names

  • Scientific Name: Bucephalandra kishii S.Y.Wong & P.C.Boyce
  • Common Name: “Kishii Bucephalandra.”

Quick Facts

  • Origin: Native to the island of Borneo in Southeast Asia
  • Features: Thrives in shaded, humid environments. It is characterized by deep green, glossy leaves with dark veins, making it a striking addition to aquariums and tropical plant collections

Taxonomy & Classification

  • Genus: Bucephalandra
  • Botanical Background:  Described in 2006 by botanists S.Y. Wong and P.C. Boyce. It is part of a relatively recent expansion in the understanding of Bucephalandra, which has gained increasing attention for its ornamental qualities.

Natural Habitat & Distribution

  • Geographical Range: Native to Borneo, specifically found in tropical rainforests and along riverbanks, where it thrives in the humid, shaded understory.
  • Environment: It grows in environments with consistently high humidity, typically in areas with rich, organic substrates. The species prefers temperatures between 22-28°C (72-82°F) and does not tolerate frost.

Morphological Characteristics

Leaves

  • Lanceolate, dark green, and glossy
  • Veining pattern
  • Leaf size can range from 10 to 20 cm in length
  • Leathery texture
  • Highly resistant to water loss

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

  • Spadix surrounded by a green spathe

Growth Habit

  • An epiphyte
  • Growing on rocks or submerged in streams
  • Does not produce a rhizome or tube

Cultivation & Care

Light Requirements

  • Bright, indirect light

Watering & Humidity

  • Consistently moisture
  • Water kept at a slightly acidic to neutral pH range
  • High humidity environments, with levels of 50-80%

Soil & Potting Mix

  • A well-draining, organic-rich substrate
  • A mix of peat, perlite, and orchid bark

Temperature & Fertilizer

  • Temperature range of 22-28°C (72-82°F)
  • Should be fed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season

Propagation Methods

Division and Stem Cuttings

  • Cutting
  • Small sections of the plant with attached roots can be carefully separated and replanted

Seeds

  • Possible, but the seeds are small and slow to germinate

Common Pests & Diseases

Typical Issues

  • Aphids, mealybugs, and snails
  • Root rot

Treatment Recommendations

  • Insecticidal soap or neem oil
  • Ensure good drainage
  • Avoid stagnant water in the growing medium

Notable Traits & Uses

  • Striking appearance
  • Challenge of growing it successfully in aquariums
  • Glossy, dark green foliage, and unique leaf patterns

Conservation & Availability

Wild Population Status

  • Endangered
  • Its native habitat is threatened by deforestation and habitat loss

Market Availability

  • Moderately rare in the market
  • Readily available in specialty plant shops and among enthusiasts

References & Resources

Further Reading

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