Treubii Dark Form Scindapsus

Basic Information

Common Name: Treubii Dark Form Scindapsus

Scientific Name: Scindapsus treubii ‘Dark Form’

Native Habitat: Southeast Asia, primarily found in the rainforests of Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand.

History / Discovery / Cultivator

The Scindapsus treubii ‘Dark Form,’ a captivating cultivar of the Scindapsus treubii species, shares its origins with the broader genus. Scindapsus, belonging to the Araceae family, is a genus of vining plants known for their attractive foliage and ease of care. While the exact date of discovery and the specific individual who first identified and named the ‘Dark Form’ cultivar is difficult to pinpoint with precision as is typical for plant varieties developed and traded commercially, the species Scindapsus treubii itself was first described in 1893 by Adolf Engler, a prominent German botanist. The species name "treubii" honors the Dutch botanist Melchior Treub, who made significant contributions to the study of tropical plants.

The ‘Dark Form’ distinguishes itself through its particularly deep, almost black-green foliage, which is the characteristic that gives it its common name. This unique coloration likely arose through natural mutation or perhaps selective cultivation over time. Unlike some highly sought-after variegated plants, the ‘Dark Form’ does not depend on unstable variegation for its visual appeal. Instead, its charm lies in the consistent, deep coloration of its leaves.

The popularity of the ‘Dark Form’ has grown considerably in recent years, thanks in part to the rise of houseplant enthusiasts and collectors. It is valued for its striking appearance, adaptability to indoor environments, and the relatively low maintenance it requires. It’s found in collections around the world. It is important to note that while the ‘Dark Form’ is now widely available, its appeal stems from its slightly rarer nature relative to more common houseplants and its dark foliage. The precise geographic location where this particular cultivar was first discovered or propagated remains a point of speculation, but its ancestry is firmly rooted in the tropical rainforests of Southeast Asia, the same region where the original species thrives. It's very likely that various plant nurseries in the tropical regions of its origin played a role in its proliferation. The 'Dark Form' continues to be cultivated and admired, bringing a touch of the exotic rainforests to homes and offices globally.

Plant Care Summary

Botanical Insights

Adaptations

The Scindapsus treubii ‘Dark Form’ is adapted to thrive in the shaded understory of tropical rainforests. Several key adaptations contribute to its survival. Its dark foliage is an adaptation to efficiently absorb low light conditions of its native habitat, maximizing photosynthetic efficiency. The vining growth habit, with its aerial roots, allows it to climb trees in search of better light, while also providing stability. The leaves of the Scindapsus treubii are somewhat leathery, which helps reduce water loss and gives them a degree of durability against mechanical damage. Furthermore, the plant’s ability to propagate through stem cuttings, especially under humid conditions, is a vital adaptation, allowing for quick reproduction in its environment.

Propagation Methods

The ‘Dark Form’ is relatively easy to propagate using stem cuttings. This can be done in water or directly in soil.

• Stem Cuttings in Water: Cut a stem section with at least one leaf and a node (where the leaf attaches to the stem). Place the cutting in a jar of water, ensuring the node is submerged. Change the water every few days. Roots should develop within a few weeks. Once roots are a few inches long, transplant the cutting into a pot with well-draining soil.
• Stem Cuttings in Soil: Cut a stem section with at least one leaf and a node. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone (optional). Plant the cutting in a pot with well-draining soil, keeping the soil consistently moist. Cover the pot with a plastic bag or humidity dome to increase humidity. Rooting usually takes a few weeks.

Other methods include division (separating multiple plants) and air layering.

Toxicology

The Scindapsus treubii ‘Dark Form’ is considered mildly toxic if ingested by humans or pets. The plant contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause oral irritation, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. If ingestion occurs, it's best to rinse the mouth and seek veterinary attention for pets, and consult a physician if a human has ingested it. Keeping the plant out of reach of children and pets is recommended.

Common Problems

Pests:

• Spider mites
• Mealybugs
• Scale

Diseases:

• Root rot (caused by overwatering)
• Leaf spot (caused by fungal or bacterial infections)

Other:

• Yellowing leaves: Usually caused by overwatering, underwatering, or lack of light
• Browning tips: Can be caused by low humidity or inconsistent watering.
• Leggy growth: Insufficient light can result in this, indicating the plant is reaching for more light.

Rarity & Value

Rarity:

The 'Dark Form' Scindapsus is not as widely available as some other common houseplants, making it somewhat rare. Supply can be limited by slow growth rates and the demand from collectors. The plant's popularity, especially amongst the indoor plant community, drives up demand.

Value:

Several factors affect the value of a 'Dark Form' Scindapsus plant. Larger, more mature plants tend to command higher prices. Healthy plants with dense foliage are more valuable than those with sparse growth or signs of pest or disease. The presence or absence of variegation can influence value: while the 'Dark Form' is prized for its solid dark color, unique patterns or variegation can sometimes increase value, if the variegation is stable. Current trends in the houseplant market and demand also significantly affect the price. Well-established plants with a known and reputable provenance may also be valued higher.