Xanthosoma sandiaense Croat & Delannay

• Genus: Xanthosoma
• Botanical Background: Described by aroid specialists Thomas B. Croat and Bertrand Delannay, the species name “sandiaense” refers to the Sandia Province in Peru where the plant was originally collected.

• Geographical Range: Endemic to the Sandia region of southeastern Peru
• Environment: Found in moist, tropical montane forests at mid-elevation. It thrives in warm, humid environments with organic-rich soils and consistent moisture availability.

Leaves

• Large, sagittate leaves with smooth, dark green surfaces and prominent veins
• Leaf blades are thick and held aloft by strong, erect petioles

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

• Pale green to yellowish spathe surrounding a cream-colored spadix
• Pollination mechanisms are not well documented but likely involve beetles

Growth Habit

• Terrestrial species with tuberous roots, growing in upright clumps
• Non-climbing and rooted in well-drained forest soil

Light Requirements

• Grows best in bright, filtered light or partial shade
• Avoid harsh, direct sun to prevent leaf damage

Watering & Humidity

• Prefers consistently moist soil and high humidity
• Water regularly during active growth
• Do not allow the substrate to become waterlogged

Soil & Potting Mix

• Requires a well-draining mix rich in organic matter
• Use a blend of peat, compost, and perlite or coarse sand for aeration

Temperature & Fertilizer

• Thrives at 20–28°C (68–82°F)
• Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 3–4 weeks during the growing season for optimal growth

Division

• Propagated through division of tubers
• Division should contain at least one viable bud or shoot

Seeds

• Propagation is rarely practiced and 
• May be limited by availability and slow germination rates

Typical Issues

• Spider mites and aphids
• Good airflow and check for early signs of pest presence

Treatment Recommendations

• Treat pests with neem oil or insecticidal soap
• Prevent rot by avoiding waterlogged soil and using well-draining potting media

• Narrowly distributed and may represent a unique evolutionary adaptation to the humid mid-elevation forests of the Andes

• Due to its rarity and attractive foliage
• Appeal to collectors or botanical gardens focused on highland aroids

Wild Population Status

• Not yet formally assessed
• Restricted distribution suggests potential vulnerability to habitat degradation or environmental change

Market Availability

• Extremely rare in cultivation
• Not typically found in commercial nurseries and may be maintained only in specialized or academic collections