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Pothos cuspidatus Alderw.

Introduction & Overview

Common and Scientific Names

  • Scientific Name: Pothos cuspidatus Alderw
  • Common Name: None widely recorded

Quick Facts

  • Origin: Western New Guinea
  • Features: Lanceolate leaves with a sharp apex

Taxonomy & Classification

  • Genus: Pothos
  • Botanical Background: Described by Cornelis R. W. K. van Alderwerelt (Alderw.) in 1922, this species has received limited study outside specialist aroid literature.

Natural Habitat & Distribution

  • Geographical Range: Native to the wet tropical rainforests of western New Guinea.
  • Environment: Grows in low‑light understories on tree trunks and branches. Prefers consistently high humidity, rich organic soils, and warm, stable temperatures.

Morphological Characteristics

Leaves

  • Glossy, lanceolate
  • Measuring 8–15 cm long
  • Pronounced pointed tip and smooth margins

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

  • Small, pale green spathe enclosing a cream‑colored spadix
  • Likely pollinated by small flies or beetles
  • No strong scent reported

Growth Habit

  • A climbing, non‑tuberous vine that roots at nodes

  • Maintains a slender rhizome near the stem

Cultivation & Care

Light Requirements

  • Bright, indirect light

  • Tolerates lower light but with slower growth

Watering & Humidity

  • Water when the top 2 cm of soil dries

  • Maintain humidity above 60 percent

Soil & Potting Mix

  • Use a well‑draining mix of peat, perlite, and orchid bark

  • A pot with drainage holes is essential

Temperature & Fertilizer

  • Ideal range 18–29 °C

  • Feed monthly during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer

Propagation Methods

Division

  • Division of clumps at the rhizome is also effective

Stem Cuttings (if applicable)

  • Best propagated by stem cuttings with at least one node, placed in water or moist substrate

Seeds

  • Rarely used

  • Seeds require warm, moist conditions and may take several weeks to germinate

Common Pests & Diseases

Typical Issues

  • Spider mites, mealybugs, and scale

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot

Treatment Recommendations

  • Wipe leaves with soapy water or neem oil

  • Apply insecticidal soap or systemic insecticide for severe infestations
  • Improve air circulation to deter fungal issues

Notable Traits & Uses

  • Epithet “cuspidatus” refers to its sharp leaf tip
  • Its discreet blooms make it primarily valued for foliage
  • Rare in cultivation,
  • Has appeals to collectors seeking true Pothos vines with unique narrow leaves

Conservation & Availability

Wild Population Status

  • Not assessed by IUCN
  • Habitat loss from logging may pose future risks

Market Availability

  • Occasionally offered by specialty nurseries and aroid collectors

  • Generally considered uncommon

References & Resources

Further Reading

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