The term 'cf.' of 'confer' is used to indicate an organism similar to an existing species, but where there is uncertainty if it is in fact the named species. For instance, a fish that resembles Betta channoides but has slight differences or originates from a previously-unknown locality may be referred to as Betta cf. channoides, until taxonomists have determined its exact status.

With C. cf. jacobsenii, there is considerable uncertainty about the original plant itself, of which little is known about its original distribution. According to researcher Jan Bastmeijer, the type specimens of C. jacobsenii came from Sumatra or West Malaysia in the 1970s. With small leaves bearing transverse markings that are shared with many other Cryptocoryne species, the plant bears a typical spathe with a rough limb, distinct collar and red or yellow throat with fine red spots.