Menu
Log in
site_logo

Pothos fractiflexus Joling, J.T.Pereira & Damit

Introduction & Overview

Common and Scientific Names

  • Scientific Name: Pothos fractiflexus Joling, J.T.Pereira & Damit
  • Common Name: Fractiflexus pothos (informal collector’s name)

Quick Facts

  • Origin:  Endemic to Sabah, Malaysian Borneo
  • Features: Linear to narrowly lanceolate leaves with a firm, coriaceous texture

Taxonomy & Classification

  • 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.

Natural Habitat & Distribution

  • 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.

Morphological Characteristics

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

Cultivation & Care

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

Propagation Methods

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

Common Pests & Diseases

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

Notable Traits & Uses

  • 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

Conservation & Availability

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

References & Resources

Further Reading

LOVE AROIDS?

Immerse yourself in aroid bliss by joining our family of thousands of ariod enthusiasts worldwide today.

You’ll love the benefits and incredible community.

Shop IAS Merch

Shop our merch store! The 2025 Limited Edition items, designed by Andrew Blaurock, are available for a limited time.

Frank Luca Anthurium Nov
DF Unisex Hoodie

$38.00

'Stripey' Unisex Classic
Tee

$25.00

'Stripey' Unisex V-Neck
T-Shirt

$25.00

'Stripey' Unisex T-shirt

$25.00

Powered by Wild Apricot Membership Software
Document