Remusatia hookeriana is a rare Himalayan aroid grown for its unusual foliage and distinctive flowers. This shade-loving plant produces metallic green leaves with purple undersides and unusual yellow pitcher-shaped blooms.

It grows from small tubers and spreads through tiny “hitchhiker” bulbils that form along long stolons. This makes it an interesting plant for collectors and gardeners who enjoy propagating unusual species.

• Height: 25–40cm
• Spread: 40–60cm over time
• Tuber size: about 2–2.5cm
• Flower colour: yellow
• Position: shade or partial shade
• Soil: rich, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil

About Remusatia hookeriana

Remusatia hookeriana belongs to the Arum family and grows naturally on mossy rocks and trees in Himalayan forests. It often behaves as an epiphyte in the wild, rooting into organic matter that collects on branches and rock crevices.

The plant produces fragrant yellow flowers before the foliage appears. These flowers have a narrow, pitcher-like shape typical of many aroids.

After flowering, striking leaves develop.

• Metallic green upper surface
• Deep purple underside
• Heart-shaped leaf form

Like other species in the genus, it spreads by producing long stolons that carry small barbed bulbils. These attach easily to soil or nearby surfaces and grow into new plants.

Common names include:

• Himalayan elephant ear
• Hitchhiker elephant ear

Benefits for UK Wildlife

Remusatia hookeriana contributes to a diverse shade garden.

• Creates sheltered ground cover for insects
• Supports small invertebrates in shaded garden areas
• Works well within wildlife-friendly woodland planting

Pair it with ferns and shade perennials to create layered habitat.

Where to Grow Remusatia hookeriana

• Woodland gardens
• Shaded borders
• Containers in sheltered patios
• Shaded rock gardens
• Under trees and shrubs

Many UK gardeners grow it in pots so the tubers can be protected from winter cold.

Planting Tips

• Plant tubers in spring once frost risk has passed.
• Use humus-rich compost mixed with leaf mould.
• Ensure good drainage while keeping soil consistently moist.
• Place in shade or dappled light.
• Water regularly during the growing season.
• Reduce watering when the plant goes dormant.
• Lift and store tubers dry if severe frost is expected.

Collect the small bulbils that fall from the plant. Place them on moist compost and they will quickly form new plants.

Why Grow Remusatia hookeriana

• Rare Himalayan foliage plant
• Metallic leaves with purple undersides
• Fragrant yellow aroid flowers
• Produces many bulbils for propagation
• Excellent for shaded gardens and containers

If you enjoy unusual woodland plants, Remusatia hookeriana brings distinctive foliage and interesting growth habits to shaded parts of your garden.