Homalomena havilandii – Care Guidelines and Botanical Insights

Homalomena havilandii is a rare, ground-dwelling tropical aroid known for its compact size and bold, rippled foliage. The leaves are broadly ovate to heart-shaped, with deep green surfaces and thick, prominent venation that gives them a pleated texture. Growing from a short, creeping rhizome, this species maintains a neat, low-growing rosette form, making it a beautiful choice for terrariums, shaded displays, or tropical underplanting. The leaf surface has a subtle satin sheen and a slightly leathery touch, giving it a tactile quality that invites closer inspection. It’s a slow but steady grower that thrives in warm, stable environments with consistent humidity.
Key Features of Homalomena havilandii
 
Leaf colour: Rich, deep green with subtle sheen
 
Leaf shape: Broadly ovate to cordate with prominent, sunken veins
 
Growth habit: Compact, clumping form from a creeping rhizome
 
Size: Typically 25–40 cm in height and spread indoors
 
Texture: Firm, slightly leathery with visible ripple effect
Natural Context and Growth Info for Homalomena havilandii
Homalomena havilandii is native to Borneo, where it grows in the shaded understory of tropical lowland rainforests. These habitats are characterised by high humidity (often above 80%), warm temperatures (24–30 °C), and low light filtered through dense canopies. The species prefers moist, well-aerated forest soil and typically forms low clumps along streams or in humus-rich clearings.
Indoors, it maintains its tight growth form and modest size, making it perfect for collectors working with limited space. It is generally non-toxic but still best kept away from pets and children due to limited toxicity research on the genus.
How to Care for Homalomena havilandii
 
Light: Bright, dappled or medium indirect light — avoid full sun
 
Watering: Keep the soil lightly moist; allow the top layer to dry slightly between waterings
 
Humidity: Prefers high humidity (60–80%) to maintain lush foliage
 
Temperature: Thrives at 22–28 °C; sensitive to cold and sudden drops
 
Soil: Use a loose, organic-rich substrate with fine to medium aeration
 
Repotting: Only when necessary — plant prefers to stay somewhat root-bound
 
Fertilising: Feed once a month with a low-strength liquid fertiliser
 
Propagation: Done via division of rhizome; cut with sterile tools during repotting
 
Hydroponics: Adapts to semi-hydro systems with inert medium and stable humidity
 
Pruning: Remove damaged or fading leaves at the base to maintain form
Typical Issues and Solutions for Homalomena havilandii
 
Yellowing leaves: Often linked to overwatering or poor drainage
 
Leaf edge browning: A sign of dry air or salt buildup — flush substrate occasionally
 
Drooping: Usually caused by sudden environmental stress or underwatering
 
Fungus gnats: Common in moist soil — reduce watering and use sticky traps
 
Mealybugs: May appear at leaf bases — remove manually and treat with neem oil
Additional Growing Considerations for Homalomena havilandii
This species doesn’t require support structures and thrives in quiet, undisturbed conditions. Keep it away from strong air currents or frequent repositioning. Homalomena havilandii responds well to careful mimicry of its forest floor habitat — stable warmth, soft filtered light, and moisture-retentive soil. Understanding how this species grows low in tropical jungle environments can help guide your care, especially in maintaining its compact form and deep green foliage.
Name Meaning and Botanical History of Homalomena havilandii
Homalomena is derived from Greek, combining “homalos” (even or flat) and “mene” (moon), likely referencing the leaf shape or surface. The species name havilandii honours George Darby Haviland, a British surgeon and naturalist known for his botanical work in Borneo. It was formally described by Henry Nicholas Ridley, a key figure in tropical botany, especially within Southeast Asia.
FAQs about Homalomena havilandii
 
Is Homalomena havilandii terrarium-friendly? Yes, it stays small and thrives in high humidity — ideal for medium to large terrariums.
 
How long does it take to establish after shipping? Usually 2–3 weeks to fully settle, especially if humidity is kept high and lighting stable.
 
Can I grow it in a self-watering pot? It’s possible, but only if the soil remains airy — avoid compact or waterlogged substrates.
Order Homalomena havilandii Today
If you're into compact rainforest rarities with rich texture and steady growth, Homalomena havilandii is a solid choice. Buy now and bring understated tropical elegance into your space.