50% OFF! Hot items selling fast—Grab them before they're gone!
Unconditional Satisfaction GuaranteeNo Shipping Fees Above 302 Months to Decide. Returns Simplified.Apoballis acuminatissima is a rare and elegant tropical aroid from the Araceae family, native to Southeast Asia, particularly Indonesia and Malaysia. Closely related to Homalomena and Philodendron, this species is celebrated for its richly textured foliage, metallic sheen, and distinctive variegation that make it a true collectors plant.
The elongated, lance-shaped leaves are a deep green overlaid with silvery-green or bluish tones, often flecked or streaked with irregular patches of lighter variegation. The undersides contrast beautifully in shades of maroon or deep purple, creating a striking two-tone effect. The leaf surface has a soft, satin-like texture that reflects light, making each leaf appear almost metallic.
Compact and sophisticated, Apoballis acuminatissima grows in an upright, bushy form and is ideal for adding a lush, tropical aesthetic to bright interiors, terrariums, or greenhouse displays.
Thrives in bright, indirect light. It tolerates medium light but develops its most intense colour and sheen under brighter conditions. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves or fade the metallic tones.
Keep the soil lightly moist but not soggy. Water when the top 23 cm of soil feels dry. Apoballis acuminatissima dislikes both overwatering and prolonged dryness. Reduce watering in winter when growth naturally slows.
Temperature: Prefers warmth, 2028C. Avoid cold draughts and temperatures below 16C.
Humidity: Requires high humidity (6080%) to maintain vibrant foliage. Mist regularly or use a humidifier, particularly in centrally heated homes.
Use a loose, free-draining aroid mix peat-free compost blended with orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir works best. This allows airflow to the roots while retaining some moisture. Repot every 12 years in spring to refresh the soil.
Feed every 46 weeks during spring and summer with a diluted balanced liquid fertiliser. Do not feed in winter.
Remove old or damaged leaves at the base to maintain a neat shape. Wipe leaves gently with a damp cloth to highlight their natural sheen. Rotate occasionally to ensure even growth.
A moderately fast grower that typically reaches 3060 cm tall indoors. With time, it forms a full, upright clump of lush, metallic foliage.
Yellowing leaves: Overwatering or poor drainage.
Brown leaf edges: Low humidity or inconsistent watering.
Pale foliage: Too little light.
Pests: Occasionally thrips or spider mites maintain humidity to deter infestations.
Apoballis acuminatissima is an emerging favourite among aroid collectors, often mistaken for Homalomena or Caladium due to its leaf patterning. Its natural beauty lies in the metallic variegation and contrasting purple undersides that shimmer under bright light. In the wild, it grows in humid tropical understories, which explains its preference for warmth and moisture in cultivation.
This elegant species adds a touch of understated luxury to interiors a perfect choice for plant enthusiasts who enjoy unique, texture-rich tropical foliage.
Quick Care Summary
Light: Bright, indirect; tolerates medium
Water: Lightly moist; allow topsoil to dry slightly
Temperature: 2028C; avoid below 16C
Humidity: High (6080%)
Soil: Loose, free-draining aroid mix
Feed: Every 46 weeks in spring/summer
Growth: Upright clumping plant, 3060 cm; metallic green leaves with purple undersides
