Pothos fractiflexus Joling, J.T.Pereira & Damit

• Genus: Pothos
• Botanical Background: Described in 2020 by Joling, Pereira & Damit in Webbia (75: 96), this species adds to the diversity of Borneo’s aroid flora and honors the fractiflexus (zigzag) appearance of its branching stems.

• Geographical Range: Endemic to lowland and hill dipterocarp forests of Sabah, Borneo.
• Environment: Thrives under a closed canopy with high humidity (70–90%), well-drained humus-rich soils, and mean annual temperatures of 24–28 °C.

Leaves

• Linear to narrowly lanceolate, entire margins
  
• Typically 8–12 cm long and 2–3 cm wide
  
• Leathery (coriaceous), glossy adaxial surface, paler beneath
  

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

• Greenish spathe, tubular, 3–5 cm long

• Cylindrical spadix, cream to pale yellow, bearing few sessile florets

• Pollinationis likely by small Diptera or Coleoptera attracted to faint sap odors

Growth Habit

• An obligate climber with adventitious roots
• Stems slender and branching, lacking tubers, anchored to bark and rock surfaces

Light Requirements

• Bright, indirect light
• Tolerates moderate shade but may develop thinner leaves in low light

Watering & Humidity

• Keep substrate evenly moist but not waterlogged
• Water when the top 2 cm of mix dries. Maintain humidity above 60%

Soil & Potting Mix

• Use a well-draining mix of peat, orchid bark, and perlite
• A moss pole or bark slab supports climbing habit

Temperature & Fertilizer

• Ideal range: 18–30 °C
• Fertilize monthly during the growing season with a balanced, water‑soluble fertilizer at half strength

Division

• Rarely used due to slender habit

Stem Cuttings (if applicable)

• 5–7 cm segments with at least one node, rooted in water or moist mix

Seeds

• Uncommon
• Viability and germination requirements are not well documented

Typical Issues

• Spider mites, mealybugs, scale

• Root rot from overwatering, occasional fungal leaf spots

Treatment Recommendations

• Neem oil or insecticidal soap sprays

• Systemic insecticide for severe infestations; ensure proper drainage to prevent rot

• Its specific epithet, fractiflexus, refers to the zigzag branching pattern of its stems

• Collector’s aroid prized for its narrow, architectural foliage
• Ability to cling to vertical surfaces in terraria and shadehouses

Wild Population Status

• Not yet assessed by the IUCN
• Habitat loss in Borneo poses potential risks

Market Availability

• Rare in cultivation
• Available through specialist aroid nurseries and private collectors