Anthurium clarinervium, often referred to as the “velvet cardboard anthurium,” is a distinctive houseplant prized for its striking foliage. Its large, heart-shaped leaves feature a deep green, velvety texture, beautifully contrasted by prominent, light-colored or ivory veins that create a corrugated appearance. Its visual appeal makes it a popular ornamental indoor plant. Native to Mexico, this tropical plant grows as an epiphyte in its natural habitat, attaching to trees.
Caring for Anthurium Clarinervium
Light
Anthurium clarinervium thrives in bright, indirect light conditions, mimicking its natural environment beneath a forest canopy. Placing the plant near an east-facing window or in a room with filtered light from a south or west-facing window is ideal. Direct sunlight can scorch its delicate leaves, causing yellowing or browning. Conversely, insufficient light may cause its distinct leaf markings to fade, indicating a need for more light.
Watering
Watering Anthurium clarinervium requires a balanced approach to prevent both desiccation and root rot. Water thoroughly when the top inch or two of the soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to soggy soil, poor aeration, and root rot. Conversely, prolonged dryness can cause wilting and browning leaf tips. Using room temperature, filtered, or distilled water is beneficial, as these plants can be sensitive to hard, mineralized tap water.
Soil Mix
A well-draining, airy, and porous soil mix is important for Anthurium clarinervium, reflecting its epiphytic nature. A suitable blend includes components for aeration, drainage, and moisture retention. Combinations of orchid bark, perlite, and peat moss or coco coir are recommended. This chunky substrate helps prevent waterlogging and supports healthy root development, mimicking its natural tree-growing conditions.
Temperature and Humidity
Maintaining appropriate temperature and high humidity levels is important for Anthurium clarinervium. These tropical plants prefer temperatures between 70 to 90°F (21 to 32°C) during the growing season. Temperatures below 60°F (15°C) can cause distress, with temperatures below 40°F (4°C) can be fatal. High humidity, at least 50-60%, is beneficial. To increase humidity, consider using a pebble tray, a humidifier, or grouping plants together.
Fertilization
Anthurium clarinervium benefits from regular, but not excessive, fertilization during its active growing season in spring and summer. A balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer can be applied every one to two months. Fertilization should be reduced or stopped entirely during the cooler winter months when growth slows, as excess fertilizer can lead to root burn.
Repotting Anthurium Clarinervium
Repotting Anthurium clarinervium is needed every two to three years, or when the plant becomes root-bound, indicated by roots emerging from drainage holes or circling the pot. The best time for repotting is in the spring as it enters its active growth phase. When repotting, select a pot no more than 2 inches wider than the current one, to prevent overpotting which can lead to root rot. Gently remove the plant, carefully loosen the old potting mix, and place it in the new pot with fresh, well-draining soil, ensuring the roots are handled with care.
Propagating Anthurium Clarinervium
Propagating Anthurium clarinervium is best done through division. This method involves carefully separating the main plant into smaller sections, ensuring each new division has its own root system and at least one healthy leaf. Spring is an opportune time for division, often coinciding with repotting. While stem cuttings can also be attempted, division is more reliable for successful rooting. After division, each new plant should be potted in a well-draining mix and provided with warm, humid conditions to encourage establishment.
Common Issues with Anthurium Clarinervium
Anthurium clarinervium can exhibit several common issues, often signaling environmental imbalances. Yellowing leaves often point to improper watering (too much or too little) or excessive light exposure; overwatering specifically leads to root rot, causing leaves to yellow and become mushy. Brown leaf tips or edges are a sign of low humidity or underwatering. Pest infestations, such as spider mites, mealybugs, thrips, and scale, can occur, leading to discoloration or damage. Regular inspection and prompt treatment with insecticidal soap can help manage these pests.