This very rare species occurs in the rainforest of the Indonesian province of West Papua, in the west of the island of New Guinea. The leaves of this species can grow to an enormous size of at least 2 metres and turn red when they fall off. The lamina covers the entire petiole, is pear-shaped and the leaves grow in the upper part of the plant. The species was discovered in 1940 in a dense section of rainforest, where a 6-metre-high specimen was found. The purple-red flowers grow in clusters on old branches under the leaves and are pollinated by birds. They are followed by pink fruits containing 1 seed.
The species is tropical and can be kept as a houseplant. Ensure well-drained soil and a light location without direct sunlight. Keep the soil constantly moist and spray the leaves regularly with water.
Sowing description: The germinated seed can be planted directly in well-drained soil. Keep constantly moist and a temperature of 25-30°C is optimal for initial development.
