Adelonema wallisii image • Photo: Author Chhe (talk)• Public domain
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Adelonema wallisii
Adelonema wallisii is a compact perennial aroid plant native to the humid tropical forests of Venezuela, Colombia, and Panama at altitudes of 300-500 meters. It features elliptic to ovate-oblong leaves measuring 13-20 cm (5-8 inches) long on short stalks, displaying bright green foliage with distinctive marbled yellow patterns. The leathery leaves arch or recurve gracefully, creating a lush appearance as they grow in a tidy rosette from underground stems. Reaching 15-25 cm (6-10 inches) in height with a wide horizontal spread, this species is notable for its resemblance to Aglaonema and Dieffenbachia species, particularly Aglaonema pictum 'Tricolor' and Dieffenbachia 'Reflector', due to its similar leaf variegation. Its slow growth rate and adaptability to indoor conditions make it popular for desktops, terrariums, or shelves. Reclassified from Homalomena wallisii in 2016 after botanical research revealed distinct characteristics.
Plant Care Overview
Care Guide
Essential requirements for your Adelonema wallisii
Light Requirements
Medium to low indirect light
Light conditions can affect leaf color and growth rate. Adjust placement as needed based on your plant's response.
Watering Schedule
Water when topsoil dries out; reduce in winter, increase in growing season
Humidity Needs
high humidity
Always check soil moisture before watering. Adjust frequency based on your home's conditions.
Temperature Range
13°C to 21°C (55°F to 70°F)
Native Climate
Native to Humid tropical forests of Venezuela, Colombia, and Panama (300-500m altitude)
Keep away from drafts, heaters, and air conditioners which can stress your plant.
Soil Type
Well-draining, moisture-retentive mix (peat-based with perlite/orchid bark)
Fertilizer
Balanced houseplant fertilizer during growing season
Consider repotting every 1-2 years to refresh soil nutrients and accommodate growth.
Propagation
Methods to grow more Adelonema wallisii plants
Division of rhizomes or stem cuttings with nodes
Plant Info
Characteristics and background information
Humid tropical forests of Venezuela, Colombia, and Panama (300-500m altitude)
slow
15-25 cm (6-10 inches) tall with a wide horizontal spread
perennial
Toxic to pets
This plant has air purifying properties.
Indoor Blooming
This plant can produce flowers indoors when given proper care.
Bloom Season
Summer
Flower Description
Small yellowish-white spathe and spadix flowers, inconspicuous compared to foliage
Fun Fact
This plant is frequently mistaken for unrelated species in different genera (Aglaonema and Dieffenbachia) due to its similar marbled foliage patterns. It was reclassified from Homalomena wallisii in 2016 after botanical research revealed distinct characteristics.
Troubleshooting
Solutions for typical issues with your Adelonema wallisii
Yellowing leaves, wilting, mushy stems
Brown leaf tips, crispy edges
Webbing (spider mites) or cottony clusters (mealybugs)
Varieties
Different varieties of Adelonema wallisii
Cultivar with enhanced leaf patterning
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Care Guides
Detailed guides for caring for your Adelonema wallisii
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