Anthurium Clarinervium – An unusual, sort after Anthurium with large, dark, heart shaped leaves, velvet textured with prominent white veins.
Another epiphytic member of the Araceae family, native to South America.
A real centre piece plant that you will admire every day.
Not a difficult plant if kept in the right mix of soil. As with most Araceae they will thrive in very free draining, bark based compost, but will not tolerate wet, heavy compost.
Secrets of success:
Summer care: Anthurium like a bright, well-lit spot, without any direct sun. They love warm temperatures, 18-22c is best. They also love humidity, this is best achieved by placing on a saucer filled with decorative stones that you add water to, stand the plant on the stones, but don`t allow the pot to touch the water. This will increase the moisture in the air around the plant. Misting regularly in the warmest months will also increase humidity.
Keep them away from hot or cold draughts, so do not place them near a radiator
During the hotter months, and assuming the correct free draining soil is being used, then the plant may need watering several times a week. Just make sure that the soil dries slightly between watering.
Fertilise once a month with a half strength diluted houseplant feed as per instructions.
Anthurium Clarinervium will flower, although they aren`t particularly showy, much like a Peace Lily.
Aftercare:
As with most Tropical plants Anthuriums require a Winter rest with slightly cooler temperatures around 16c. Little growth is made during this time so water sparingly, and make sure that you allow the top of the soil to dry between watering. This will take longer in the cooler temperatures, so don`t be hasty, you might only need to water 2 or 3 times a month.
No need to fertilise until growth starts again next Spring.
Avoid hot or cold draughts.
Repot when necessary in Spring, once every 2-3 years is average. Just use a slightly larger pot and good free draining compost.
Warnings:
The plant sap contains irritating calcium oxalate crystals that are present to deter animals from eating.
Problematic to children and pets if consumed.
Causes irritation and swelling in the mouth.
Best practice is to keep out of reach of children and pets.
