Araceae
Stylochaeton bogneri
H
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This rare perennial herb is native to East Tropical Africa, found in Kenya and Tanzania. It grows from slender, underground rhizomes, producing solitary leaves with petioles 10-25 cm long, often pale green with irregular spotting. The broadly triangular, cordate-sagittate leaf blades measure 8-21 cm long and 6-20 cm wide, with a dark green upper surface that may show grey-green variegation, and a paler underside. It produces an inconspicuous spadix, with its striking foliage being the main attraction.
Where it works in Kilifi
Stylochaeton bogneri thrives in partial to full shade, making it ideal for the understorey of a Kilifi-coast garden or as a potted specimen in a shaded, humid spot. Ensure it has consistently moist, well-draining soil to mimic its natural habitat in evergreen forests and woodlands.
Growing notes
Maintain consistent soil moisture, allowing the top layer to dry slightly between waterings, but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. This plant prefers high humidity, ideally above 70%, and optimal temperatures between 18°C and 24°C. It may enter a semi-dormant phase in cooler periods and should be protected from temperatures below 15°C.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: growtropicals.com, 305greenery.com, grokipedia.com, kew.org, gardinonursery.com. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.