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The Dark Form cultivar features large, arrow-shaped leaves with deep green to near-black tones, complemented by vibrant pink to burgundy veins and petioles. The stems are heavily mottled in shades of rose, olive, and charcoal, creating a marbled effect thats almost reptilian in texture. When mature, it develops a commanding presence with leaves that can reach impressive sizes under the right conditions.
Cyrtosperma johnstonii Dark Form is a showpiece in any rare plant collection, prized for its combination of bold patterning, rare colouring, and sculptural growth habit. Its a plant that brings a sense of wild, primal beauty to interiors and conservatories alike.
Prefers bright, indirect light or light dappled shade. It thrives under filtered sunlight similar to its natural habitat beneath rainforest canopies. Avoid direct midday sun, which can scorch the dark leaves, but provide enough light to maintain its vivid vein colour.
Keep the soil consistently moist. Cyrtosperma naturally grows in swampy or marsh-like environments, so it appreciates slightly wetter conditions than most aroids. However, ensure good drainage to prevent stagnation or root rot. Do not allow the substrate to dry out completely.
Temperature: Prefers 2230C and should be protected from draughts and cold air. It cannot tolerate temperatures below 18C.
Humidity: Requires high humidity (7090%) for best growth. Use a humidifier, pebble tray, or enclose it in a greenhouse cabinet to mimic its native tropical environment.
Use a moisture-retentive yet aerated mix equal parts peat-free compost, orchid bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite work well. The goal is to maintain even moisture while allowing sufficient airflow to the roots. A large, deep pot will accommodate its strong root system.
Feed every 46 weeks in the growing season (spring to late summer) with a diluted, balanced liquid fertiliser. Reduce or stop feeding in autumn and winter. The Dark Form responds well to regular, gentle feeding that supports slow, steady growth.
Remove any damaged or yellowing leaves near the base to maintain the plants striking appearance. Wipe the large leaves gently with a damp cloth to remove dust and highlight their sheen. Rotate the plant occasionally to ensure even exposure to light.
A moderate to fast grower when kept warm and humid. Mature plants can reach up to 1.5 metres in height, with large, upright leaves that create a bold architectural display. Given enough space and consistent moisture, it will continue to expand year after year.
Yellowing leaves: Overwatering with stagnant soil or cold conditions.
Brown edges: Low humidity or underwatering.
Slow growth: Insufficient warmth or light.
Pests: May attract spider mites or aphids in dry environments; treat promptly with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Cyrtosperma johnstonii is native to humid, tropical regions stretching from Malaysia to the Solomon Islands, where it grows in wetlands and slow-moving water. The Dark Form is a highly desirable cultivar distinguished by its richer, darker leaf pigmentation and more pronounced pink veining.
This species belongs to the same botanical family as Alocasia and Colocasia but prefers a wetter growing medium and thrives in high humidity. Its dramatic appearance makes it a favourite among rare plant enthusiasts and tropical garden designers.
While less commonly found in cultivation, Cyrtosperma johnstonii Dark Form rewards patient care with an unmatched display of texture and colour, embodying the wild essence of the tropics.
Light: Bright, indirect or dappled shade
Water: Keep soil consistently moist; never allow to dry out completely
Temperature: 2230C; avoid below 18C
Humidity: Very high (7090%)
Soil: Moisture-retentive, airy mix compost, bark, perlite, sphagnum
Feed: Every 46 weeks in spring/summer
Growth: Upright tropical aroid, up to 1.5 m tall; dark green leaves with pink veins and mottled stems
Toxicity note: Contains calcium oxalate crystals and is toxic if ingested. Keep out of reach of pets and children.
Display Cyrtosperma johnstonii Dark Form as a statement specimen in a large ceramic or stone-effect planter, allowing room for its roots and foliage to expand. It pairs beautifully with lighter-toned plants such as Alocasia Platinum or Philodendron Fresh Aurea for contrast, or surround it with ferns and mosses to evoke its natural, jungle-edge environment.
