The Anthurium ‘Ace of Spades’ is a popular houseplant, prized for its unique foliage. This hybrid cultivar offers a striking aesthetic, appealing to plant enthusiasts, especially those collecting dark-leaved plants.
Distinguishing Features
The Anthurium ‘Ace of Spades’ is recognized by its captivating leaves: large, heart-shaped, and velvety. New leaves emerge reddish or bronze, deepening to a rich, dark green, almost black as they mature. This deep color is often complemented by distinct silver-white venation, creating a striking contrast. The unique spade-like silhouette gives the plant its common name.
Comprehensive Care Guide
Light
Anthurium ‘Ace of Spades’ thrives in bright, indirect light. Placing the plant near a window with filtered sunlight is ideal. Lower light may result in slower growth and less vibrant foliage. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch leaves. If natural light is insufficient, supplemental grow lights can provide necessary illumination.
Watering
Anthurium ‘Ace of Spades’ prefers consistent moisture without being waterlogged. Allow the top one to two inches of soil to dry out before watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot and fungal issues; underwatering can cause leaves to yellow, droop, or become brittle. Ensure the pot has excellent drainage holes and discard excess water from the saucer. Watering frequency varies with environmental factors, requiring more in warmer months.
Humidity and Temperature
Mimicking its tropical origin, Anthurium ‘Ace of Spades’ requires high humidity, ideally consistently above 50%, with 70-80% being optimal. Insufficient humidity can lead to poorly hardening off new leaves and plant stress. To increase humidity, use a humidifier or pebble trays. The ideal temperature range is 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C); protect from drafts and extreme fluctuations.
Soil and Potting
Anthurium ‘Ace of Spades’ thrives in a well-draining, airy substrate that supports its epiphytic or semi-epiphytic nature. A chunky potting mix is recommended for air circulation and to prevent waterlogging. A suitable mix can include orchid bark, pumice, charcoal, coco husk, lava rock, and high-quality potting soil. Ensure the pot has drainage holes. Plastic nursery pots are effective as they help maintain consistent moisture.
Fertilization
Fertilize Anthurium ‘Ace of Spades’ for robust growth. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer, or one high in phosphorus, diluted to three-quarters strength, every 2-3 months during the growing season. Reduce or cease fertilization during winter. Organic feeds are beneficial for epiphytes, providing slow-release nutrients. To prevent salt buildup, periodically flush the root ball with deep watering.
Propagation Techniques
Anthurium ‘Ace of Spades’ can be propagated through stem cuttings or division. For stem cuttings, select a healthy 6-8 inch section, making a clean cut. Root this cutting in water (submerging only 1 cm to prevent rot) or directly in a moist, well-draining potting mix. For division, carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently separate the root ball into sections, ensuring each has healthy roots and top growth. Replant each new section into its own pot with appropriate soil, watering thoroughly.
Repotting Guidelines
Repot Anthurium ‘Ace of Spades’ every two to three years or when it outgrows its container, indicated by roots circling the soil or emerging from drainage holes, wilting foliage despite watering, or new leaves not sizing up. The best time is when new growth emerges in spring, but address root-bound plants promptly. Choose a new pot one to two inches larger. Gently remove the plant, clean old soil from roots, and place it in the new pot with fresh mix. Water well after repotting.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Anthurium ‘Ace of Spades’ can face pests and environmental stress. Pests like spider mites, mealybugs, aphids, thrips, and scale insects can cause yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or webbing. Regular inspection and good air circulation help prevent infestations. Treat mealybugs with rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab; use insecticidal soap or neem oil for other pests. Environmental stressors also cause problems. Yellowing leaves indicate overwatering, underwatering, or nutrient deficiencies. Browning leaf tips often point to low humidity or inconsistent watering. Stunted growth may signal a root-bound plant or nutrient deficiency. Proper watering, adequate humidity, and consistent fertilization are important preventative measures.