The Anthurium warocqueanum, often called the Queen Anthurium, is a striking tropical plant known for its distinctive foliage. Native to the rainforests of Colombia, it is an epiphyte, growing on other plants or rocks rather than in soil. Its elongated, dark green, velvety leaves can grow impressively large, sometimes exceeding a meter in length. These leaves often feature prominent, contrasting white or silvery veins that become more pronounced with maturity, enhancing its ornamental appeal.
Anthurium Warocqueanum Care
Success with the Queen Anthurium requires replicating its native rainforest environment. This plant has specific needs regarding light, water, humidity, temperature, and soil composition. Consistent conditions across these factors are important for its health and impressive leaf development.
Light
The Queen Anthurium thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural habitat beneath a dense tree canopy. Direct sunlight can scorch its velvety leaves, causing irreversible damage. Position the plant near a window with filtered light, such as with a sheer curtain, to diffuse intense rays.
If natural light is insufficient, grow lights can supplement illumination. When using grow lights, keep them further away than with other plants to avoid light bleaching or scorching. Insufficient light leads to stunted growth and smaller new foliage.
Watering
Proper watering is important for the Queen Anthurium, as it is sensitive to both overwatering and underwatering. The plant prefers consistently moist soil, but never waterlogged. Allow the top inch or two (2-5 cm) of soil to dry out between waterings.
As an epiphyte, its roots require aeration; allowing some drying prevents root rot, a common issue. The “soak and dry” method, where the plant is thoroughly watered until drainage occurs and then allowed to dry, is effective. Watering frequency adjusts based on environmental factors and soil mix.
Humidity and Temperature
High humidity is important for the Queen Anthurium. Aim for 60-80% humidity, with over 70% ideal for optimal growth. While it can tolerate lower household humidity (50-60%) if acclimated, growth may be slower.
A humidifier effectively maintains consistent high humidity. Grouping plants together can also create a localized microclimate. The Queen Anthurium prefers warm, consistent temperatures, ideally between 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C). Sudden fluctuations or cold drafts stress the plant, so a stable environment is important.
Soil Mix
The Queen Anthurium requires a well-draining, airy, and chunky soil mix for root aeration. As an epiphyte, it does not thrive in dense or compacted soil. A suitable aroid mix includes components like orchid bark, perlite, coco coir or coco chips, and charcoal.
Orchid bark provides chunky texture and drainage, while perlite or pumice improve aeration and prevent compaction. Coco coir or peat moss help retain moisture without waterlogging. Charcoal aids in absorbing impurities. The goal is a medium that drains quickly while retaining enough moisture. The ideal pH range is slightly acidic, between 5.5 and 6.5, to facilitate nutrient absorption.
Fertilization
During its active growing season (spring and summer), the Queen Anthurium benefits from regular fertilization. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half or quarter strength is recommended. Apply fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during this period for robust growth.
While some suggest phosphorus for blooming, the Queen Anthurium is primarily grown for its foliage. Over-fertilizing can lead to leaf burn, so dilute cautiously. During fall and winter, when growth slows, reduce or stop fertilization.
Repotting and Potting Anthurium Warocqueanum
Repotting the Queen Anthurium supports its growth and maintains root health. Repot every 2-3 years, or when it becomes root-bound (roots have filled the pot and are circling). Degraded potting mix, which loses its airy structure, is another indicator.
Choose a new pot only slightly larger (2-3 inches wider) than the current one. Pots with ample drainage holes prevent waterlogging. Due to its epiphytic nature, some growers use basket-style pots for increased root air circulation. When repotting, gently remove the plant, taking care not to damage delicate roots. Shake off any old, degraded soil. Position the plant in the new pot and backfill with fresh, well-draining aroid mix, ensuring stability. After repotting, water thoroughly to help the medium settle.
Propagating Anthurium Warocqueanum
Propagating Anthurium warocqueanum is achieved through stem cuttings or division. The best time to propagate is during the plant’s active growing season, such as spring or early summer.
For stem cuttings, select a healthy stem with at least one node and a few leaves. Make a clean cut below a node using a sterile, sharp knife or shears. Place the cutting in a rooting medium like sphagnum moss, perlite, or a mix, providing a moist yet airy environment. Maintaining high humidity around the cutting, perhaps in a propagation box or with a humidity dome, increases successful rooting. Roots typically emerge from the nodes.
Division is usually performed during repotting when the plant has multiple growth points or offsets. Carefully separate a section with its own roots and a portion of the stem. Pot the divided section into its own aroid mix, providing the same care as a mature plant.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Owners of Anthurium warocqueanum may encounter common issues, often signaling care imbalances. Yellowing leaves frequently indicate overwatering, which can lead to root rot. If leaves yellow, check soil moisture and ensure it dries sufficiently between waterings. Yellowing can also result from underwatering, nutrient deficiencies, or excessive direct sunlight.
Browning leaf tips or edges typically point to low humidity or, less commonly, over-fertilization. Increasing ambient humidity often resolves this. Stunted growth can signal insufficient light, requiring a move to a brighter, indirect location. It can also suggest a need for fertilization during the growing season.
Pest infestations, though less common, can occur. Common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, aphids, thrips, and scale can affect the plant. Regular inspection, especially of leaf undersides and new growth, aids early detection. Sticky residue (honeydew) or distorted leaves indicate aphids or mealybugs. Treatment involves wiping leaves with a damp cloth, using insecticidal soap, or neem oil sprays. Maintaining good air circulation and overall plant health helps prevent pest issues.