Protarum sechellarum Engl.

• Genus: Protarum
• Botanical Background: Described by Adolf Engler in 1901; the genus was historically placed in Colocasioideae but reassigned to Aroideae based on modern phylogenetics.

• Geographical Range: Endemic to Seychelles’ granitic islands (Mahé, Praslin, Silhouette)
• Environment: Grows on shaded forest floors of seasonally dry tropical biome and mist‑forest understoreys, preferring humus‑rich, well‑draining soils.

Leaves

• Solitary, pedatisect to radiate blades with narrow elliptic leaflets
• Petiole long with a short sheath

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

• Single, erect spathe (boat‑shaped) enclosing a short spadix
• Inflorescences may appear with or without foliage

Growth Habit

• Terrestrial, tuberous geophyte with a subglobose tuber and seasonal dormancy

Light Requirements

• Bright, indirect light
• Avoid direct sun

Watering & Humidity

• Keep evenly moist but never waterlogged
• High humidity (≥60%)

Soil & Potting Mix

• Loose, well‑draining aroid mix (peat, bark, perlite)

Temperature & Fertilizer

• 20–28 °C
• Balanced liquid fertilizer monthly during active growth

Division

• Separate tubers during dormancy

Seeds

• Rarely used 
• Viability low without specialist conditions

Typical Issues

• Susceptible to root rot if overwatered
• Occasional mealybugs and spider mites

Treatment Recommendations

• Improve drainage
• Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap for pests

• Only species in its genus worldwide
• Prized for its unusual leaf architecture and rarity

• Highly sought by collectors of rare aroids for its botanical uniqueness

Wild Population Status

• IUCN Vulnerable due to limited distribution and habitat degradation

Market Availability

• Rare
• Available only through specialty botanical gardens and aroid enthusiasts