Anthurium ‘Raven’s Heart’ is a highly sought-after houseplant, captivating enthusiasts with its distinct appearance. It features dark, velvety, heart-shaped foliage and a striking deep red to nearly black spathe. These unique characteristics make it a captivating addition to any indoor plant collection.
Discovering Anthurium Raven’s Heart
Anthurium ‘Raven’s Heart’ is distinguished by its exceptionally dark foliage, which can range from a deep forest green to an almost black hue. The leaves possess a velvety texture, often displaying a subtle iridescence that catches the light beautifully, contributing to its dramatic aesthetic.
Its inflorescence features a dark, nearly black-red spathe, a modified leaf resembling a flower petal, which contrasts elegantly with the dark foliage. This tropical plant originates from regions where it thrives in warm, humid environments, similar to many anthuriums.
Essential Care for Anthurium Raven’s Heart
Light Needs
Anthurium ‘Raven’s Heart’ flourishes in bright, indirect light conditions. Placing it near an east or north-facing window is often ideal, as these locations provide ample light without harsh direct sun exposure. Direct sunlight can scorch its delicate dark leaves, leading to unsightly brown patches. Insufficient light, conversely, may result in leggy growth and a reduction in the vibrancy of its unique foliage color.
Watering Practices
Proper watering is crucial for the health of Anthurium ‘Raven’s Heart’. The plant prefers its soil to dry out slightly between waterings, so water thoroughly when the top inch or two of soil feels dry. Adequate drainage prevents waterlogging and root rot. Overwatering often causes yellowing leaves and plant decline.
Humidity and Temperature
This tropical plant thrives in high humidity, ideally above 60%. Lower humidity levels can cause the leaf edges to turn brown and crispy. To increase ambient humidity, consider placing the plant on a pebble tray filled with water, using a room humidifier, or grouping it with other plants. Consistent temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C and 27°C) are preferred, as cold drafts or sudden temperature drops can stress the plant.
Soil and Potting
An ideal potting mix for Anthurium ‘Raven’s Heart’ is well-draining and airy, mimicking its natural growth habits. A mixture containing components like orchid bark, perlite, and a small amount of peat moss or coco coir provides the necessary aeration and moisture retention. Use a pot with ample drainage holes to prevent water accumulation. The pot size should correspond to the plant’s root ball, avoiding excessively large containers.
Fertilizing
Fertilizing supports healthy growth and vibrant foliage for your Anthurium ‘Raven’s Heart’. During the growing season (spring and summer), apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4-6 weeks. Reduce or cease fertilization in cooler, dormant months. Over-fertilization can lead to salt buildup, burning roots and discoloring leaves.
Repotting Your Anthurium Raven’s Heart
Repotting Anthurium ‘Raven’s Heart’ becomes necessary when the plant outgrows its current container or when the potting medium begins to break down. Signs that indicate a need for repotting include roots emerging from the drainage holes or the plant becoming top-heavy. This process is typically required every 1-2 years.
Gently remove the plant, selecting a new pot only one size larger. Fill with fresh, well-draining aroid mix. After repotting, water thoroughly and place in a stable environment to aid recovery from transplant shock.
Propagating Anthurium Raven’s Heart
Propagating Anthurium ‘Raven’s Heart’ is most effectively achieved through division, especially when the plant has developed multiple growth points or offsets. This method also refreshes the parent plant and is best done during repotting.
Carefully separate a section with its own roots and at least one healthy stem. Use a clean, sharp knife if needed. Pot divisions in small pots with fresh potting mix. High humidity and warmth encourage establishment and new growth.
Common Problems and Solutions
Anthurium ‘Raven’s Heart’ can exhibit several signs indicating environmental stress or care issues. Yellowing leaves often point to either overwatering (leading to root suffocation) or underwatering; assess soil moisture and adjust frequency. Browning leaf tips commonly occur due to low humidity or salt accumulation from tap water or fertilizer; increase humidity or use filtered water. A lack of new growth may suggest insufficient light or nutrient deficiencies; move to brighter, indirect light or apply diluted fertilizer. Pests like spider mites and mealybugs, identified by tiny webs or cottony masses, can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.