The Anthurium Warocqueanum, often called the Queen Anthurium, is a highly sought-after houseplant recognized for its impressive foliage. Native to the tropical rainforests of Colombia, this epiphytic plant features elongated, velvety dark green leaves that can reach up to 6 feet in their natural habitat. While the plant’s striking leaves with prominent pale veins are its primary attraction, the Queen Anthurium also produces a unique flower structure.
The Unique Anthurium Warocqueanum Flower
The Anthurium Warocqueanum flower is an inflorescence, common to plants in the Araceae family. It consists of two main parts: a spadix and a spathe. The spadix is a slender, finger-like spike, which can be pale yellow-green, cream, or maroon, and is where the plant’s tiny true flowers are located. Surrounding this spadix is a modified leaf called the spathe, which is typically green or greenish-brown and spear-shaped.
The spathe is relatively inconspicuous compared to the plant’s large, dramatic leaves, often appearing smaller and less vibrant. This structure emerges from the plant’s leaf axil, usually at the base. The texture of the spathe can be waxy or slightly leathery, contrasting with the velvety feel of the foliage. Its presence signifies a healthy and mature plant thriving in suitable conditions.
Promoting Bloom
To encourage Anthurium Warocqueanum to produce its unique flower, specific environmental conditions are beneficial. Bright, indirect light is necessary, mimicking its natural habitat beneath a rainforest canopy. Too much direct sunlight can scorch its delicate leaves and hinder blooming, while low light levels can also prevent flower production. Placing the plant a few feet from an east-facing window or providing filtered light works well.
High humidity is crucial, with ideal levels ranging between 70% and 85%. This plant originates from consistently moist rainforest environments, and insufficient humidity can stress the plant, impacting its ability to flower. Using a humidifier, pebble trays, or grouping plants together can help maintain the necessary moisture in the air. Consistent warm temperatures are also important, ideally between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C), as temperature fluctuations can deter blooming.
A regular feeding schedule during the growing season supports the plant’s energy requirements for blooming. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, diluted to half-strength, applied every 4-6 weeks from spring through summer is recommended. While some sources suggest a slightly higher phosphorus content for flowering, a general balanced fertilizer is sufficient, as over-fertilization can harm the plant. Consistent moisture in the potting mix, allowing the top inch or two to dry slightly between waterings, is important to prevent root issues that could inhibit flowering.
What to Do After Flowering
Once the Anthurium Warocqueanum flower has faded and discolored, it is beneficial to prune the spent inflorescence. This involves cutting the flower stalk close to the plant’s base using clean, sharp shears. Removing the spent spathe and spadix directs the plant’s energy towards producing new foliage and future blooms, rather than expending resources on a dying structure. This practice also improves the plant’s overall appearance and air circulation around its base.
If the flower was pollinated, it may develop small, light red berries containing seeds. Seed production requires significant energy from the plant, which can divert resources away from vegetative growth or future flowering cycles. If the goal is not seed collection, removing the spent flower prevents this energy drain.
After the flowering period, maintain consistent care conditions, including appropriate light, humidity, and temperature, to support the plant’s recovery and prepare it for its next blooming cycle. Continue with the diluted fertilizer regimen during the active growing season to replenish nutrients used during flowering. Sustained optimal conditions are conducive to the plant’s overall health and vigor, promoting a robust foundation for future inflorescences.