Filarum manserichense Nicolson

• Genus: Filarum
• Botanical Background: Described in 1979 by botanist Thomas J. Nicolson based on collections from Amazonian Peru.

• Geographical Range: Endemic to low‑elevation tropical rainforests in northern Peru.
• Environment: Thrives in consistently moist, shaded understories on well‑draining alluvial soils with high humidity (above 80%).

Leaves

• Simple, lanceolate to elliptic, dark glossy green
• Measuring 10–20 cm long on slender petiole

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

• Features a slender, pale green spadix enclosed in a tubular spathe
• Emits a faint musty scent to attract small fly pollinators

Growth Habit

• Terrestrial perennial arising from a tuberous rhizome; non‑climbing and remains compact (15–25 cm tall)

Light Requirements

• Bright, indirect light; avoid direct sun

Watering & Humidity

• Keep soil evenly moist but never waterlogged
• Maintain humidity above 70%

Soil & Potting Mix

• Use a loose, well‑draining mix high in organic matter (e.g., orchid bark, peat, perlite

Temperature & Fertilizer

• Ideal range 20–28 °C; feed monthly during active growth with a balanced diluted fertilizer
  

Division and Cuttings

• Best propagated by dividing the tuber during dormancy; ensure each division has at least one growth point

Seeds

• Seed production is uncommon; germination requires warm, moist, shaded conditions and can take several weeks

Typical Issues

• Susceptible to root rot from overwatering
• Pests like spider mites or mealybugs

Treatment Recommendations

• Improve drainage for root health
• Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil; remove affected tissue promptly

• Its monotypic status and unique inflorescence structure make it of particular interest to taxonomists and collectors
• Valued for its compact form and unusual bloom

• A highlight in specialized aroid collections

Wild Population Status

• Not formally assessed by IUCN but likely vulnerable due to habitat loss

Market Availability

• Extremely rare in cultivation
• Typically found only through specialist growers or aroid societies