• Genus: Rhaphidophora Hassk.
• Botanical Background: Described by Joseph Dalton Hooker in Flora of British India in 1893 and subject of major treatments by Boyce et al. in Flora of Thailand (2012) and CATE Araceae (2012).

• Geographical Range: Native to southern Peninsular Thailand, Peninsular Malaysia (type locality) and Sarawak, Borneo.
• Environment: Thrives in humid, shaded understories of tropical rainforests; occurs in wet evergreen lowland to upper hill forests on sandstone, occasionally on limestone

Leaves

• Trifoliolate 
• Leaflets elliptic, 20–30 × 8-12 cm
• Glossy green above, paler beneath; apex acuminate with a 1–1.5 cm arista

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

• Peduncle to 1.1 m long

• Spathe pale green with dark semi‑orbicular auricles at the mouth

• Spadix 3.5–6 cm long, white‑green, often exerted, bearing 2–4‑androus staminate flowers

Growth Habit

• Evergreen herbaceous liana to 10 m, with a robust underground rhizome
• Climbing stems winged in cross‑section, twisting to create a “barley‑sugar” effect

Light Requirements

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

Watering & Humidity

• Water when the top 50–75 % of the soil surface is dry
• Prefers high humidity 
• Occasional misting or pebble tray beneficial

Soil & Potting Mix

• Use a well‑draining mix of bark, perlite and peat or coco coir

Temperature & Fertilizer

• Optimal range 21–27 °C (70–80 °F)

• Feed monthly during the growing season with a balanced, water‑soluble fertilizer

Division and Cuttings

• Stem cuttings with at least one node root readily in water or moist mix

Seeds

• Rarely used in cultivation 
• Berries contain 6–7 mm globose seeds

Typical Issues

• Spider mites, aphids and mealybugs are most common
• Regularly inspect foliage and isolate new plants

Treatment Recommendations

• Increase humidity and clean leaves with a strong spray
• Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil as needed

• Fruits turn bright red when ripe; likely dispersed by birds
• Thick leaf blades and twisting stems distinguish it from close relatives like R. Montana

• Sought by collectors for its robust form, unique leaf morphology and rare availability

Wild Population Status

• Not currently assessed by the IUCN Red List

Market Availability

• Rare in general trade
• Occasionally offered by specialist aroid nurseries