Habitat and Ecology
​Ulearum donburnsii is a rare, miniature terrestrial herb belonging to the Arum family (Araceae), native to the Amazonian lowlands of Ecuador (near the Peruvian border). It is found in Tropical Moist Forests, where it grows terrestrially in the humid, deeply shaded understory. This species grows from small, creeping rhizomes among rich leaf litter and decaying organic matter on the forest floor, thriving in the consistently warm and saturated air of the lowland tropics.
​Description
​This plant is highly prized for its unique, miniature growth habit and striking foliage. It is a slow-growing herb that remains small and compact, rarely exceeding 15-30 cm (6-12 inches) in height. The leaves are the main ornamental feature: they are typically arrowhead-shaped (sagittate), often displaying a beautiful dark, rich green colouration with a subtle velvety texture. Some highly sought-after forms can show intricate bronze or silver markings along the veins. It produces a characteristic aroid inflorescence (spadix and spathe). It is distinguished from its close relative, Ulearum sagittatum, by the finer, thread-like sterile organs (staminodes) on its spadix.
​Cultivation
​Ulearum donburnsii requires consistently warm and highly humid conditions, making it an exceptional subject for a terrarium, vivarium, or heated display cabinet in the UK. It needs low to moderate filtered light, replicating the dappled shade of the rainforest floor. Direct sunlight must be avoided as it will quickly scorch the delicate leaves. The substrate should be organic-rich, loose, and extremely well-draining; an aroid mix containing fine bark, perlite, and a small amount of synthetic peat or coir is recommended. The substrate must be kept consistently moist but should never be waterlogged. High humidity (70-85%) is crucial for health.
​Optimal Daytime Temperature: 21-27^{\circ}\text{C} (70-81^{\circ}\text{F})
​Minimum Temperature: Must be kept above 15^{\circ}\text{C} (59^{\circ}\text{F}); avoid any cold drafts.
​Feed lightly (monthly during the growing season) with a balanced, dilute liquid fertiliser.
​Unique Features
​This is a rare and highly desirable miniature aroid, perfect for collectors with limited space, as its size remains reliably small. Its primary appeal lies in its diminutive stature combined with the unique, patterned, arrowhead-shaped foliage. Its discovery in 2003 makes it a relatively modern botanical find. Its requirement for stable, high-humidity, and warm conditions makes successfully growing it a rewarding challenge for the advanced aroid enthusiast.
​Specifications
​Plant Size: (user input)
​Plant Family: Araceae
​Plant Passport: A Ulearum donburnsii B 140084 C [user input] D GB
​This video covers the care requirements and native habitat of this plant: Ulearum donburnsii Houseplant Care — 247 of 365.