The Anthurium Papillilaminum is a tropical subshrub from Panama, valued for its large, velvety, heart-shaped leaves with a deep olive-green hue. Its manageable size makes it suitable for indoor cultivation.
Essential Care Requirements
Light
Anthurium Papillilaminum thrives in bright, indirect light, similar to its natural habitat under tree canopies. An east or north-facing window is ideal, as direct sunlight can scorch its leaves. While it tolerates lower light, ample indirect illumination promotes optimal growth. When using artificial light, avoid placing the plant directly underneath the source.
Watering
Consistent moisture is important for Anthurium Papillilaminum, but prevent waterlogging to avoid root rot. Keep the soil consistently moist during the spring and summer growing season. Water when the top inch or two of soil feels dry, ensuring complete drainage. During cooler winter months, water less frequently as growth slows. Wilting leaves indicate underwatering, while yellowing leaves with brown tips often signal overwatering.
Soil Mix
A well-draining, airy, and rich organic soil mix is important for Anthurium Papillilaminum. This prevents water from sitting around the roots. A common mix includes sphagnum peat moss, perlite, and orchid bark, promoting aeration and moisture retention. Other beneficial ingredients like horticultural charcoal, coco coir, pine bark, and pumice can further enhance drainage and mimic the plant’s natural epiphytic conditions. The ideal soil pH is slightly acidic, between 5.5 and 6.5.
Humidity and Temperature
High humidity and stable, warm temperatures are important for Anthurium Papillilaminum. It thrives in humidity levels between 60% and 80%, tolerating around 55% indoors. Increase humidity with a humidifier or by placing the plant on a pebble tray (ensure the pot doesn’t sit in water). Regular misting also helps. The optimal temperature range is 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 27°C), as it is sensitive to temperatures below 60°F (16°C).
Fertilization
During the active growing season (spring and summer), Anthurium Papillilaminum benefits from regular fertilization. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer (e.g., 20-7-20 or 20-20-20) diluted to half-strength to prevent root burn. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks. During winter dormancy, reduce or cease fertilization. Some growers provide a reduced-frequency feed in winter for slower growth.
Repotting Your Anthurium Papillilaminum
Repot Anthurium Papillilaminum every one to two years, or when it outgrows its container. Signs include roots emerging from drainage holes or degraded soil. Spring is the best time for repotting, but a struggling plant can be repotted anytime.
Choose a new pot only 1-2 inches larger in diameter with good drainage holes. Gently remove the plant, inspecting the root ball for dead or rotten roots. Place fresh, well-draining soil mix at the bottom of the new pot, position the plant, and fill around the root ball, gently patting to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly after repotting to help the soil settle.
Propagating Anthurium Papillilaminum
Propagate Anthurium Papillilaminum using stem cuttings. Select a healthy, 6-8 inch section from a mature plant. Make a clean cut just below a node, removing lower leaves to expose nodes. Dipping the cut end in rooting hormone can enhance root development.
Cuttings can root in water or a rooting medium like sphagnum moss or well-draining soil. For water rooting, submerge nodes in a jar, keeping leaves above water, and change water weekly. For soil rooting, plant in a moist, well-draining mix, keeping it consistently moist. Provide bright, indirect light and warm temperatures. Roots typically form within 4-8 weeks; once several inches long, transplant the new plant.
Common Issues and Solutions
Anthurium Papillilaminum can show distress from environmental conditions or care. Yellowing leaves with browning tips may indicate overwatering or nutrient deficiencies. Soggy soil can lead to root rot, characterized by black, soft, or slimy roots. Adjust watering and ensure proper drainage.
Brown tips or crispy edges often signal low humidity, underwatering, or sunburn. Increase humidity with humidifiers or pebble trays, and move the plant to bright, indirect light. Slow growth or stunted development can indicate inadequate light or nutrient deficiencies; ensure sufficient indirect light and balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Pest infestations (spider mites, mealybugs, thrips, aphids, scale) can also affect the plant. Signs include distorted growth, yellowing leaves, webbing, or visible insects. Regular inspection aids early detection. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Good air circulation helps prevent infestations. Sudden temperature fluctuations can cause leaf browning; maintain stable conditions for plant health.