Cyrtosperma johnstonii - 8cm pot / 12cm
Cyrtosperma johnstonii looks like something a dinosaur would walk past. Arrow-shaped leaves, pink-toned veins and stems with actual spines. I mean, look at the attitude on it.
Associated with the Solomon Islands, this tropical aroid has the sort of structure that makes a collection feel properly wild. Young foliage can show especially vivid pink along the main veins, while the mottled leaf stalks add another layer of detail. As it develops, those long, angular leaves become increasingly dramatic.
The stalks are worth a closer look too. Their prickles can join into little ridges, giving the plant a decidedly armoured appearance. Admire with your eyes first. It has made its position on being grabbed fairly clear.
This is one for a grower who enjoys warmth, humidity and keeping a moisture-loving plant comfortable. I would give it the kind of sheltered, humid setup where it can get on with becoming magnificent.
If your idea of a dream houseplant is something that makes people say, 'What the hell is THAT?', Cyrtosperma johnstonii has a very strong application.
