Phyllodium elegans, commonly known as Longstalk Phyllodium or Elegant Phyllodium, is a perennial shrub native to the understory of tropical rainforests in Southeast Asia. It exhibits a moderate growth rate, reaching heights of 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters) and a spread of 1.5-2 feet (0.5-0.6 meters). This plant is characterized by its unique foliage, which resembles small, delicate fish scales, and its yellow, somewhat inconspicuous flowers that bloom in the summer. The flowers are not particularly showy, but they do add a subtle charm to the plant’s overall appearance.

Longstalk Phyllodium is valued for its unusual leaf texture and form, making it an interesting addition to tropical-themed gardens or as a potted specimen in temperate regions. It is used in cultivation for border planting, as an understory plant in shaded gardens, or as a container plant. It thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers medium to fast-draining loam soils. While it requires medium amounts of water, it is important to avoid waterlogged conditions. There are no widely recognized cultivars of this species in the horticultural trade. Potential problems include susceptibility to root rot if overwatered and pests such as aphids and spider mites in dry conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0