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Phymatarum borneense M.Hotta

Introduction & Overview

Common and Scientific Names

  • Scientific Name: Phymatarum borneense M.Hotta
  • Common Name: Borneo Phymatarum; Borneo Water‑Lily; Borneo Water‑Shield

Quick Facts

  • Origin: Brunei and Sarawak (Borneo)
  • Features: Distinctive for its creeping rhizome habit and erect, constricted spathe

Taxonomy & Classification

  • Genus: Phymatarum
  • Botanical Background: Described by Mitsuru Hotta in 1965 in Mem. Coll. Sci. Kyoto Imp. Univ.

Natural Habitat & Distribution

  • Geographical Range: Endemic to central and northern Sarawak (Malaysia) and Brunei, Borneo.
  • Environment: Rheophytic on muddy riverbanks in lowland wet tropical forests; occasionally terrestrial in permanently saturated soils under deep shade.

Morphological Characteristics

Leaves

  • Broadly oblanceolate to narrowly elliptic (12–25 cm × 2.5–8 cm), thick‑membranous, glossy dark green above and paler beneath, with purplish venation

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

  • Solitary to three per shoot
  • Spathe 6–9.5 cm long, constricted at midpoint, lower portion greenish, limb cream‑pink and reflexed
  • Spadix 5–7 cm long with distinct female, sterile, and male zones

Growth Habit

  • Terrestrial to rheophytic herb with creeping, rooting rhizomes
  • Stems up to 40 cm long

Cultivation & Care

Light Requirements

  • Bright, indirect light
  • Avoid direct sun

Watering & Humidity

  • Keep substrate constantly moist
  • High humidity (>70%)

Soil & Potting Mix

  • Use acidic, well‑draining mix (peat‑based with perlite)

Temperature & Fertilizer

  • Maintain 22–28 °C
  • Feed monthly during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer

Propagation Methods

Division and Cuttings

  • Divide creeping rhizomes in spring
  • Rreplant sections in moist medium


Seeds

  • Rarely used
  • Require warm, humid conditions and light germination medium

Common Pests & Diseases

Typical Issues

  • Susceptible to root rot (overwatering), spider mites, and mealybugs 
  • Ensure good drainage and regular inspection

Treatment Recommendations

  • Remove affected tissue
  • Apply neem oil for pests
  • Use diluted fungicide for root rot

Notable Traits & Uses

  • A true rheophyte adapted to fast‑flowing streams

  • One of few Araceae endemic to Borneo

  • Valued for compact habit
  • Unusual inflorescence
  • Rarity among collectors

Conservation & Availability

Wild Population Status

  • Predicted as threatened due to restricted range and habitat specificity

Market Availability

  • Rare in trade
  • primarily available through specialty nurseries and aroid societies

References & Resources

Further Reading

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