Habitat:
Aeschynanthus batakiorum is endemic to northern Sumatra, Indonesia, where it is found in upper montane and mossy cloud forests at elevations between 1800 and 2400 metres. It grows as an epiphyte on tree trunks and branches in areas with persistent mist, low light, and high atmospheric humidity. This species is part of the specialised flora of high-altitude tropical forests and is restricted to undisturbed habitats with thick moss layers and dense canopy cover, particularly in the Batak highlands from which its name derives.
Description:
Aeschynanthus batakiorum is a compact to moderately trailing epiphytic shrub with thickened, creeping to arching stems that range from 20–60 cm in length. Leaves are opposite, ovate to elliptic, leathery, and succulent in texture, 2–5 cm long and 1–2.5 cm wide, with entire margins and a slightly glossy surface. The plant produces axillary or terminal inflorescences bearing 1–3 tubular flowers. Each flower measures 3.5–5 cm in length and is deep red to maroon externally, with a brighter red or orange inner surface and yellow markings in the throat. The corolla is slightly curved and glandular-hairy on the outside. Calyx lobes are small, green, and subequal. The flowers are adapted for bird pollination.
Cultivation:
Aeschynanthus batakiorum prefers cool to intermediate conditions with bright, filtered light and high humidity. Daytime temperatures should range from 18–24°C, with nighttime temperatures between 10–14°C. Humidity should be maintained above 75% with excellent air movement. It grows well in hanging baskets or mounted on cork with sphagnum moss, using an epiphytic mix of fine bark, moss, and perlite. Keep the medium consistently moist but never soggy. Allow the surface to dry slightly between waterings. The ideal soil pH is slightly acidic (5.5–6.5). Feed every 3–4 weeks during the growing season with a dilute, balanced liquid fertilizer.
Specifications:
Plant Size: stem propagated by us, spld in sizes upwards of 15 cm tall. Sold as single stems.
Plant Family: Gesneriaceae
Plant Passport: Aeschynanthus batakiorum B 140084 C 0000 D GB