Pothos englerianus Alderw.

• Genus: Pothos
• Botanical Background: Described by botanist Cornelis Alderwerelt van Rosenburgh in 1920, the species honors German botanist Adolf Engler for his contributions to plant taxonomy.

• Geographical Range: Native to the rainforests of Borneo, particularly in Sabah and Sarawak regions.
• Environment: Thrives in shaded understories with high humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures, and well-drained, humus-rich soils.

Leaves

• Lanceolate, 20–30 cm long and 2–5 cm wide

• Leathery in texture with a matte to slightly glossy finish and prominent midrib

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

• Infrequent in cultivation; spathe greenish-white, 3–5 cm long, enclosing a cylindrical spadix
• Pollination is typically beetle-mediated in native habitat

Growth Habit

• Epiphytic or hemiepiphytic climber, producing slender aerial roots
• No tubers
• stems are flexible and twining

Light Requirements

• Bright, indirect light
• avoid direct sun to prevent leaf scorch

Watering & Humidity

• Keep substrate evenly moist but not waterlogged
• Maintain humidity above 60% for optimal growth

Soil & Potting Mix

• Use a well-draining mix of orchid bark, peat moss, and perlite in a container with drainage holes

Temperature & Fertilizer

• Ideal range 18–29 °C (65–85 °F)
• Feed monthly during active growth with a balanced, diluted fertilizer

Division and Cuttings

• Propagate via stem cuttings with at least two nodes
• Place in water or moist mix until roots develop

Seeds

• Rarely grown from seed
• Requires warm, humid conditions and light exposure for germination

Typical Issues

• Spider mites, mealybugs, and root rot from overwatering
• Ensure good air circulation

Treatment Recommendations

• Treat pests with insecticidal soap or neem oil
• For root rot, reduce watering and repot into fresh, dry mix

• One of the few Pothos species with linear foliage
• Plays a role as an understory climber in native ecosystems

• Valued by collectors for its rarity and elegant, narrow leaves that contrast well in mixed aroid displays

Wild Population Status

• Not yet assessed by IUCN
• Habitat loss in Borneo may threaten wild populations

Market Availability

• Rare in the horticultural trade
• Occasionally available through specialist nurseries and aroid societies