The Queen of Hearts Anthurium (Anthurium clarinervium) is a captivating houseplant cherished by enthusiasts for its unique aesthetic. Hailing from the tropical regions of Southern Mexico, its striking appearance features velvety, heart-shaped leaves adorned with prominent white or silver veins, making it a popular choice among indoor plant collectors.
Unveiling Its Distinctive Features
The ‘Queen of Hearts’ Anthurium features deeply lobed, heart-shaped leaves with a velvety texture. A defining characteristic is the stark contrast between the dark green leaf blade and thick, silvery-white venation, giving the plant a “cardboard-like” appearance. Mature leaves can reach 8 to 10 inches long, contributing to its dramatic presence. The plant maintains a compact, upright growth habit, suitable for various indoor display settings.
Essential Care for Thriving Growth
Light Needs
The ‘Queen of Hearts’ Anthurium flourishes in bright, indirect light. Place it near an east-facing window or in a room with filtered light from south or west-facing windows. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can lead to leaf scorching and yellowing foliage. Insufficient light can result in dull veining, leggy stems with smaller leaves, or slow growth. Filtered light mimics its natural habitat beneath larger tree canopies.
Watering Practices
Allow the top few inches of potting mix to dry out between waterings, meaning the soil should be about 80% dry before re-watering. Overwatering is a common problem, leading to root rot, yellowing foliage, and a soft stem. Underwatering can cause wilting and browning leaf edges or tips. Water thoroughly until water drains from the pot’s bottom, then discard any excess from the saucer.
Humidity and Temperature
This tropical plant thrives in high humidity, above 60-70%. Low humidity can lead to browning leaf edges and tips. Increase ambient humidity with a humidifier, pebble tray, or by grouping plants. The ‘Queen of Hearts’ prefers warm, stable temperatures, ranging from 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C). Avoid temperatures below 60°F (15°C) and protect the plant from cold drafts or sudden fluctuations.
Potting Mix and Nutrients
The ‘Queen of Hearts’ Anthurium requires a well-draining, airy potting mix. As an epiphyte, it naturally grows on trees, so a chunky, loose substrate is suitable. A mix includes components like orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir or peat moss. This prevents waterlogging while retaining some moisture.
During the active growing season (spring through summer), fertilize every one to two months with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Reduce or cease fertilization during cooler, dormant months.
Expanding Your Collection Through Propagation
Propagating the ‘Queen of Hearts’ Anthurium is done through division, often during spring repotting. To divide, gently remove the plant from its pot and carefully separate sections with their own root systems and at least one healthy leaf. Each division can then be potted into its own container with a well-draining potting mix.
While stem cuttings are an alternative, they can be less reliable or slower. For stem cuttings, select a section with a node and aerial roots, allow it to callus, then place it in a moist rooting medium.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Yellowing leaves can indicate overwatering or too much direct light. Check soil moisture and adjust watering or relocate the plant.
Browning leaf edges or tips signal low humidity or inconsistent watering. Increase humidity, or if the entire leaf is browning and crisp, it may suggest prolonged dryness.
Common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and thrips can affect Anthurium clarinervium. Inspect regularly and treat infestations with organic methods like neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Slow growth or lack of new leaves points to insufficient light or nutrient deficiencies. Ensure adequate bright, indirect light and a consistent feeding schedule during the growing season.